Intravenous therapy

Intravenous therapy 2007-SEP-13-Singapore

Intravenous therapy (IV therapy) is a medical technique that involves administering fluids, medications, and nutrition directly into a person's vein. This route of administration is typically used for rehydration, providing nutrition to those unable to consume food or water orally, administering medications, or delivering other medical therapies.

Overview[edit | edit source]

Intravenous therapy is a cornerstone of modern medicine, utilized in a variety of healthcare settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. The technique allows healthcare providers to deliver substances directly into the patient's bloodstream, ensuring rapid and controlled administration.

History[edit | edit source]

The concept of intravenous therapy has been around since the 1400s, but the technique wasn't widely adopted until the 1900s following the development of safer and more effective methods. Major advancements in understanding the circulatory system, advancements in sterilization and the development of plastic catheters, have all played a crucial role in the evolution of IV therapy.

Indications for IV Therapy[edit | edit source]

Intravenous therapy is used in a multitude of situations, including:

Rehydration: IV therapy is often used to treat severe dehydration by administering fluids and electrolytes directly into the bloodstream.
Nutrition: In cases where a patient cannot or will not consume food or water by mouth, IV therapy can deliver necessary nutrients.
Medication administration: Many medications can be given via IV, which allows for fast onset of action and precise control over drug levels in the body.
Correction of electrolyte imbalances: By administering solutions containing specific electrolytes, healthcare providers can quickly correct electrolyte imbalances in the body.
Blood products administration: Blood products, such as packed red blood cells or plasma, are often administered via IV.

Procedure[edit | edit source]

IV therapy involves the insertion of a thin plastic tube, known as a catheter, into a vein, usually in the hand or arm. The catheter is connected to a bag containing the fluid, medication, or nutritional supplement to be administered, and the bag is hung above the level of the patient's body to allow gravity to aid in the flow of the solution. The rate of flow can be controlled by a clamp on the tubing or by a computerized pump.

Risks and Complications[edit | edit source]

Although IV therapy is generally safe, complications can occur, including infection at the insertion site, infiltration (leakage of the IV solution into the surrounding tissues), phlebitis (inflammation of the vein), and embolism (a blood clot or air bubble in the bloodstream). Medical professionals must use sterile technique when placing an IV to reduce the risk of infection.

References[edit | edit source]

Intravenous therapy Resources
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