Nursing Knowledge
“IV” is short for “intravenous,” referring to intravenous therapy, which is the administration of fluids, medication, or nutrients directly into a client’s vein.
There are several types of IV administration:
IVs are used in a wide variety of situations, such as:
To locate a vein for insertion, apply a tourniquet to the upper arm and assess veins. Release the tourniquet once a site is identified.
Supplies needed for an IV insertion include
The IV catheter should be placed on top of the vein at a 10- to 15-degree angle during insertion, with the bevel side up.
A clean absorbent pad can be placed under the patient’s IV site to protect linens from blood during an IV insertion.
After visualizing blood return, slowly inject saline flush into the extension tubing and through the catheter, clamp the catheter, and remove saline flush.
After completing an IV insertion, attach primed extension tubing to catheter hub, apply dressing, assess for blood return by drawing back on the plunger of the attached saline flush, inject saline flush and remove.
You can improve client comfort during an IV insertion by providing privacy and an explanation of the procedure beforehand. Allow time for client questions. Demonstrate caring and patience for individuals’ concerns/needs. Other measures that may be appropriate include:
RELATED TOPIC:
Free Download
Master the topic with a unique study combination of a concise summary paired with video lectures.
USMLE™ is a joint program of the Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB®) and National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME®). MCAT is a registered trademark of the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC). NCLEX®, NCLEX-RN®, and NCLEX-PN® are registered trademarks of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Inc (NCSBN®). None of the trademark holders are endorsed by nor affiliated with Lecturio.
Your free account gives you access to:
or
Have a holly, jolly study session 🎁 Save 50% on all plans now >>