Basic Intravenous
Therapy
Gracia A. Nieves, RN
PREPARED BY:
PURPOSES
• To supply fluid when clients are unable to take in an
adequate volume of fluids by mouth
• To provide salts and other electrolytes needed to
maintain electrolyte balance
• To provide glucose (dextrose), the main fuel for
metabolism
• To provide water-soluble vitamins and medications
• To establish a lifeline for rapidly needed medications
Indications
1. Fluid and Electrolyte
Replacement
• Dehydration (e.g., due to vomiting,
diarrhea, or burns)
• Hypovolemia or shock
• Electrolyte imbalances (e.g., hypokalemia,
hyponatremia)
2. Nutritional Support
• Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) for
patients unable to eat or absorb
nutrients orally
• Partial Parenteral Nutrition (PPN) for
supplementing inadequate oral
intake
3. Medication Administration
๏ Antibiotics for severe infections
๏ Pain management (e.g., opioids, NSAIDs)
๏ Chemotherapy for cancer treatment
๏ Emergency drugs (e.g., epinephrine, atropine)
4. Maintenance of Venous Access
‣ Preoperative and postoperative care
‣ Continuous medication infusion (e.g., insulin,
heparin)
‣ Long-term therapy (e.g., dialysis, chemotherapy)
Blood and Blood Product Administration
‣ Treatment of anemia (e.g., packed
RBCs)
‣ Coagulation disorders requiring
plasma or platelets
Emergency and Critical Care
‣ Rapid fluid resuscitation in trauma or shock
‣ Administration of life-saving drugs in
cardiac arrest
‣ Immediate access for emergency drugs in
critically ill patients
Types of solution
Crystalloid Solutions
✓Small molecules that easily pass through blood
vessels
✓Used for hydration, electrolyte replacement, and
shock
✓Includes both isotonic, hypotonic, and
hypertonic solutions
1. Isotonic Solutions
‣ Equal concentration of solutes to the body’s plasma
‣ Used to replace fluids without causing cell shrinkage or
swelling
‣ Commonly used for hydration and fluid loss
Examples:
Normal Saline (0.9% NaCl) for dehydration, blood
transfusions
Lactated Ringers (LR) for burns, surgery, and trauma
Dextrose 5% in Water (D5W) initially isotonic, becomes
hypotonic after metabolism
2. Hypotonic Solutions
✓Lower concentration of solutes than plasma
✓Causes fluid to move into cells, making them swell
✓Used for cellular dehydration and hypernatremia
Examples:
0.45% Normal Saline
Dextrose 2.5% in Water (D2.5W)
0.33% Normal Saline
3. Hypertonic Solutions
✓Higher concentration of solutes than plasma
✓Draws fluid out of cells, making them shrink
✓Used for severe hyponatremia, cerebral edema, and
shock
Examples:
Dextrose 10% in Water (D10W)
3% or 5% Normal Saline
Dextrose 5% in Normal Saline (D5NS)
Colloid Solutions
✓Contains large molecules that stay in the
bloodstream
✓Used to expand blood volume in cases of shock or
severe bleeding
Examples:
Albumin
Dextran
Hetastarch (Hespan)
Vein anatomy
Peripheral Venous Access Site Selection
• The site chosen for peripheral venous access
(venipuncture) varies with the client’s age, length of
time an infusion is to run, the type of solution used,
and the condition of veins.
• For adults, veins in the arm are commonly used; for
infants, veins in the scalp and dorsal foot veins are
often used.
• The larger veins of the adult’s forearm are preferred
over the metacarpal veins of the hand for infusions
that need to be given rapidly and for solutions that
are hypertonic, are highly acidic or alkaline, or
contain irritating medications.
• The
metacarpal,
basilic, and
cephalic veins
are common
venipuncture
sites.
• The ulna and radius act as natural splints at
these sites, and the client has greater freedom of
arm movement for activities such as eating.
Types of cannula
1. Peripheral IV cannula: Injected in a
vein located at the extremities/limbs of the
body
2. Central line IV cannula: Injected into
major vein stems of the body
Peripheral IV Cannula
Commonly available variants in IV cannula:
Central line IV cannula:
Complication of IV therapy
PROBLEM CAUSES S/S INTERVENTIONS
Phlebitis • Mechanical:
caused by
the cannula
rubbing and
irritating the
vein
• Chemical:
usually
caused by
meds or
solutions
that have
high or low
pH or with
high
Localized redness,
pain, heat, and
swelling which can
track up the vein
leading to a
palpable venous
cord (feels like a
small rope)
Note: Phlebitis may
be more difficult to
assess with a CVAD
because the tip of
the catheter (thus
delivery of the
meds or solutions)
occurs in a larger
vessel.
Prevention: Assess sites frequently.
• Peripheral: Choose PVADs with
smallest gauge necessary for
purpose. Follow agency
protocols for use of IV
securement of devices or
dressings.
• Chemical: Follow Parental Drug
Therapy Manual guidelines in
your agency for medication
dilution and administration
guidelines.
• Treatment: Remove PVAD-short
or midline catheters. Apply warm
compress. Slow infusion rates.
Initiate new PVAD-short if
necessary.
• Document. Report to agency
Complication of IV therapy
Complication of IV therapy
PROBLEM CAUSES S/S INTERVENTIONS
Infection:
at insertion
site or
systemicall
y
Poor aseptic
technique,
prolonged IV
use.
Insertion site may
become red,
tender, swollen, or
have purulent
drainage.
Systemic signs
and symptoms
may include
malaise, fever,
hypotension, or
tachycardia.
Strict hand-washing, aseptic
technique for all procedures, close
monitoring of vital signs, strict
protocols for dressing, tubing and
cap changes.
Monitor blood work and vital
signs. Remove IV immediately.
Monitor for signs and symptoms
of systemic infection
Complication of IV therapy
PROBLEM CAUSES S/S INTERVENTIONS
Infiltration • Occurs
when a
non-
vesicant IV
solution is
inadvertentl
y
administere
d into
surroundin
g tissue.
Pain, swelling,
redness, skin
surrounding
insertion site is
cool to touch,
change in
quality or flow
of IV, tight skin
around IV site,
IV fluid leaking
from IV site,
frequent
occlusion
alarms on IV
pump.
Prevention: Confirm IV
patency during IV
therapy. Recheck IV
patency before
medication
administration. Use IV
securement devices to
stabilize IV insertion
sites. Avoid areas of
flexion and always assess
IV sites before, during,
and after infusing IV
fluids or medications.
Treatment: Stop infusion
and remove cannula.
Complication of IV therapy
Complication of IV therapy
PROBLEM CAUSES S/S INTERVENTIONS
Extravasation • Occurs when
vesicant
(irritating,
toxic)
solution is
administered
and
inadvertently
leaks into
surrounding
tissue
causing
damage to
surrounding
tissue.
• Like
infiltration,
this will be
more difficult
Same as infiltration
but also includes
burning, stinging
redness, blistering,
or necrosis of
tissue.
Stop infusion. Remove PVAD-
short or midline catheter. Follow
agency policy for extravasation
for specific medications. For
example, toxic medications have
a specific treatment plan.
Complication of IV therapy
PROBLEM CAUSES S/S INTERVENTIONS
Bleeding /
hemorrhag
e
Bleeding at the
insertion site.
If this is an
arterial bleed,
significant
edema and
pain may
present itself.
Bleeding (venous) at site
sometimes controlled with
manufactured hemostatic
product (StatSeal).
Suspected arterial bleeds
must be reported to an
appropriate healthcare
provider immediately
Complication of IV therapy
PROBLEM CAUSES S/S INTERVENTIONS
Hematoma Improper IV
insertion or
removal
Vein puncture
or fragile
veins
Insufficient
pressure
applied after
IV removal
Swelling and
bruising at IV site
Pain and
tenderness
Skin discoloration
(reddish or
purplish)
Remove IV catheter
Apply direct pressure to
the site
Elevate the extremity
Apply a warm compress
after 24 hours to
promote absorption
Monitor for worsening
swelling or complications
Complication of IV therapy
PROBLEM CAUSES S/S INTERVENTIONS
Air
Embolism
Air entry into
the IV line,
usually from
improper
priming or IV
tubing
disconnection
Sudden
shortness of
breath
• Chest pain
• Cyanosis
• Hypotension
• Decreased level
of consciousness
Clamp IV line immediately
Place patient in left lateral
Trendelenburg position
(prevents air from entering
the right ventricle)
Administer 100% oxygen
Notify physician
immediately
Monitor vital signs closely
Complication of IV therapy
PROBLEM CAUSES S/S INTERVENTIONS
Fluid
Overload
Excessive IV fluid
administration
Rapid IV infusion
rate
Pre-existing
conditions (e.g.,
heart failure,
kidney disease)
Hypertension
Tachycardia
Dyspnea,
crackles in
lungs
Jugular vein
distention (JVD)
Edema
Slow or stop IV infusion
Elevate head of bed
Administer diuretics if
prescribed
Monitor intake and output
(I&O)
Assess lung sounds
frequently
Complication of IV therapy
PROBLEM CAUSES S/S INTERVENTIONS
Thrombophlebiti
s
Irritating IV
medications
or solutions
Poor IV site
selection or
prolonged
catheter
placement
Lack of
aseptic
technique
Redness, warmth,
and swelling
along the vein
Pain and
tenderness at IV
site
Palpable cord-like
vein
Stop IV infusion and remove
catheter
Apply warm compress to
reduce inflammation
Elevate the affected limb
Monitor for signs of
infection or clot formation
Restart IV in a different site,
preferably the opposite
extremity
EQUIPMENT
Responsibilities of Nurses in
IV Therapy
Select the appropriate administration set and size of
catheter.
✓Consider factors such as:
type of infusion [viscous or non-viscous]
age and condition of patient [children, elderly, cardiac
patient]
rate of administration [KVO vs 6h]
✓Administration set - macro or micro, vented or unvented
✓Size of catheter - the lower the number of the gauge, the
larger the diameter of the catheter lumen
Choose the most appropriate IV site.
✓consider the patient's preference and other factors such
as medical condition, age, vein condition, type of
fluid/medication, duration of therapy, and skill of the
therapist
✓NEVER start an IV in an artery.
✓Start in the patient's nondominant hand.
✓DO NOT initiate in an extremity with compromised
lymphatic or venous flow, with dialysis or shunt inserted
✓Avoid veins over bony prominences, highly mobile, or
those of the lower extremities unless absolutely necessary
✓Check for the fluid and other equipment for infusion
IV containers should be inspected for cloudiness,
discoloration, or presence of precipitate. Verify
expiration date. Inspect IV stand or pump and IV start
kit for possible defects and contamination
✓Use aseptic technique in assembling the infusion &
during insertion
Universal / Institutional Infection control protocol
✓ Regulate IVF into desired flow rate.
Consider factors affecting flow rate:
-Human error
-Patency of tubing
-Height of IV stand
-Patient position-Fluid volume in the container
✓ Know when to change or discontinue the infusion.
-Doctor's order and hospital policy
✓ Monitor for signs of complications.
-Complications of IV therapy
✓ Document the procedure
(date and time therapy is initiated, type of infusion, flow
rate, insertion site)
Basic Intravenous Therapy, IV Solutions.pptx

Basic Intravenous Therapy, IV Solutions.pptx

  • 1.
    Basic Intravenous Therapy Gracia A.Nieves, RN PREPARED BY:
  • 2.
    PURPOSES • To supplyfluid when clients are unable to take in an adequate volume of fluids by mouth • To provide salts and other electrolytes needed to maintain electrolyte balance • To provide glucose (dextrose), the main fuel for metabolism • To provide water-soluble vitamins and medications • To establish a lifeline for rapidly needed medications
  • 3.
  • 4.
    1. Fluid andElectrolyte Replacement • Dehydration (e.g., due to vomiting, diarrhea, or burns) • Hypovolemia or shock • Electrolyte imbalances (e.g., hypokalemia, hyponatremia)
  • 5.
    2. Nutritional Support •Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) for patients unable to eat or absorb nutrients orally • Partial Parenteral Nutrition (PPN) for supplementing inadequate oral intake
  • 6.
    3. Medication Administration ๏Antibiotics for severe infections ๏ Pain management (e.g., opioids, NSAIDs) ๏ Chemotherapy for cancer treatment ๏ Emergency drugs (e.g., epinephrine, atropine)
  • 7.
    4. Maintenance ofVenous Access ‣ Preoperative and postoperative care ‣ Continuous medication infusion (e.g., insulin, heparin) ‣ Long-term therapy (e.g., dialysis, chemotherapy)
  • 8.
    Blood and BloodProduct Administration ‣ Treatment of anemia (e.g., packed RBCs) ‣ Coagulation disorders requiring plasma or platelets
  • 9.
    Emergency and CriticalCare ‣ Rapid fluid resuscitation in trauma or shock ‣ Administration of life-saving drugs in cardiac arrest ‣ Immediate access for emergency drugs in critically ill patients
  • 10.
  • 11.
    Crystalloid Solutions ✓Small moleculesthat easily pass through blood vessels ✓Used for hydration, electrolyte replacement, and shock ✓Includes both isotonic, hypotonic, and hypertonic solutions
  • 12.
    1. Isotonic Solutions ‣Equal concentration of solutes to the body’s plasma ‣ Used to replace fluids without causing cell shrinkage or swelling ‣ Commonly used for hydration and fluid loss Examples: Normal Saline (0.9% NaCl) for dehydration, blood transfusions Lactated Ringers (LR) for burns, surgery, and trauma Dextrose 5% in Water (D5W) initially isotonic, becomes hypotonic after metabolism
  • 14.
    2. Hypotonic Solutions ✓Lowerconcentration of solutes than plasma ✓Causes fluid to move into cells, making them swell ✓Used for cellular dehydration and hypernatremia Examples: 0.45% Normal Saline Dextrose 2.5% in Water (D2.5W) 0.33% Normal Saline
  • 15.
    3. Hypertonic Solutions ✓Higherconcentration of solutes than plasma ✓Draws fluid out of cells, making them shrink ✓Used for severe hyponatremia, cerebral edema, and shock Examples: Dextrose 10% in Water (D10W) 3% or 5% Normal Saline Dextrose 5% in Normal Saline (D5NS)
  • 16.
    Colloid Solutions ✓Contains largemolecules that stay in the bloodstream ✓Used to expand blood volume in cases of shock or severe bleeding Examples: Albumin Dextran Hetastarch (Hespan)
  • 17.
  • 18.
    Peripheral Venous AccessSite Selection • The site chosen for peripheral venous access (venipuncture) varies with the client’s age, length of time an infusion is to run, the type of solution used, and the condition of veins. • For adults, veins in the arm are commonly used; for infants, veins in the scalp and dorsal foot veins are often used. • The larger veins of the adult’s forearm are preferred over the metacarpal veins of the hand for infusions that need to be given rapidly and for solutions that are hypertonic, are highly acidic or alkaline, or contain irritating medications.
  • 20.
    • The metacarpal, basilic, and cephalicveins are common venipuncture sites. • The ulna and radius act as natural splints at these sites, and the client has greater freedom of arm movement for activities such as eating.
  • 21.
    Types of cannula 1.Peripheral IV cannula: Injected in a vein located at the extremities/limbs of the body 2. Central line IV cannula: Injected into major vein stems of the body
  • 22.
  • 23.
  • 27.
  • 28.
    Complication of IVtherapy PROBLEM CAUSES S/S INTERVENTIONS Phlebitis • Mechanical: caused by the cannula rubbing and irritating the vein • Chemical: usually caused by meds or solutions that have high or low pH or with high Localized redness, pain, heat, and swelling which can track up the vein leading to a palpable venous cord (feels like a small rope) Note: Phlebitis may be more difficult to assess with a CVAD because the tip of the catheter (thus delivery of the meds or solutions) occurs in a larger vessel. Prevention: Assess sites frequently. • Peripheral: Choose PVADs with smallest gauge necessary for purpose. Follow agency protocols for use of IV securement of devices or dressings. • Chemical: Follow Parental Drug Therapy Manual guidelines in your agency for medication dilution and administration guidelines. • Treatment: Remove PVAD-short or midline catheters. Apply warm compress. Slow infusion rates. Initiate new PVAD-short if necessary. • Document. Report to agency Complication of IV therapy
  • 29.
    Complication of IVtherapy PROBLEM CAUSES S/S INTERVENTIONS Infection: at insertion site or systemicall y Poor aseptic technique, prolonged IV use. Insertion site may become red, tender, swollen, or have purulent drainage. Systemic signs and symptoms may include malaise, fever, hypotension, or tachycardia. Strict hand-washing, aseptic technique for all procedures, close monitoring of vital signs, strict protocols for dressing, tubing and cap changes. Monitor blood work and vital signs. Remove IV immediately. Monitor for signs and symptoms of systemic infection Complication of IV therapy
  • 30.
    PROBLEM CAUSES S/SINTERVENTIONS Infiltration • Occurs when a non- vesicant IV solution is inadvertentl y administere d into surroundin g tissue. Pain, swelling, redness, skin surrounding insertion site is cool to touch, change in quality or flow of IV, tight skin around IV site, IV fluid leaking from IV site, frequent occlusion alarms on IV pump. Prevention: Confirm IV patency during IV therapy. Recheck IV patency before medication administration. Use IV securement devices to stabilize IV insertion sites. Avoid areas of flexion and always assess IV sites before, during, and after infusing IV fluids or medications. Treatment: Stop infusion and remove cannula. Complication of IV therapy
  • 31.
    Complication of IVtherapy PROBLEM CAUSES S/S INTERVENTIONS Extravasation • Occurs when vesicant (irritating, toxic) solution is administered and inadvertently leaks into surrounding tissue causing damage to surrounding tissue. • Like infiltration, this will be more difficult Same as infiltration but also includes burning, stinging redness, blistering, or necrosis of tissue. Stop infusion. Remove PVAD- short or midline catheter. Follow agency policy for extravasation for specific medications. For example, toxic medications have a specific treatment plan.
  • 32.
    Complication of IVtherapy PROBLEM CAUSES S/S INTERVENTIONS Bleeding / hemorrhag e Bleeding at the insertion site. If this is an arterial bleed, significant edema and pain may present itself. Bleeding (venous) at site sometimes controlled with manufactured hemostatic product (StatSeal). Suspected arterial bleeds must be reported to an appropriate healthcare provider immediately
  • 33.
    Complication of IVtherapy PROBLEM CAUSES S/S INTERVENTIONS Hematoma Improper IV insertion or removal Vein puncture or fragile veins Insufficient pressure applied after IV removal Swelling and bruising at IV site Pain and tenderness Skin discoloration (reddish or purplish) Remove IV catheter Apply direct pressure to the site Elevate the extremity Apply a warm compress after 24 hours to promote absorption Monitor for worsening swelling or complications
  • 34.
    Complication of IVtherapy PROBLEM CAUSES S/S INTERVENTIONS Air Embolism Air entry into the IV line, usually from improper priming or IV tubing disconnection Sudden shortness of breath • Chest pain • Cyanosis • Hypotension • Decreased level of consciousness Clamp IV line immediately Place patient in left lateral Trendelenburg position (prevents air from entering the right ventricle) Administer 100% oxygen Notify physician immediately Monitor vital signs closely
  • 35.
    Complication of IVtherapy PROBLEM CAUSES S/S INTERVENTIONS Fluid Overload Excessive IV fluid administration Rapid IV infusion rate Pre-existing conditions (e.g., heart failure, kidney disease) Hypertension Tachycardia Dyspnea, crackles in lungs Jugular vein distention (JVD) Edema Slow or stop IV infusion Elevate head of bed Administer diuretics if prescribed Monitor intake and output (I&O) Assess lung sounds frequently
  • 36.
    Complication of IVtherapy PROBLEM CAUSES S/S INTERVENTIONS Thrombophlebiti s Irritating IV medications or solutions Poor IV site selection or prolonged catheter placement Lack of aseptic technique Redness, warmth, and swelling along the vein Pain and tenderness at IV site Palpable cord-like vein Stop IV infusion and remove catheter Apply warm compress to reduce inflammation Elevate the affected limb Monitor for signs of infection or clot formation Restart IV in a different site, preferably the opposite extremity
  • 39.
  • 42.
  • 43.
    Select the appropriateadministration set and size of catheter. ✓Consider factors such as: type of infusion [viscous or non-viscous] age and condition of patient [children, elderly, cardiac patient] rate of administration [KVO vs 6h] ✓Administration set - macro or micro, vented or unvented ✓Size of catheter - the lower the number of the gauge, the larger the diameter of the catheter lumen
  • 44.
    Choose the mostappropriate IV site. ✓consider the patient's preference and other factors such as medical condition, age, vein condition, type of fluid/medication, duration of therapy, and skill of the therapist ✓NEVER start an IV in an artery. ✓Start in the patient's nondominant hand. ✓DO NOT initiate in an extremity with compromised lymphatic or venous flow, with dialysis or shunt inserted ✓Avoid veins over bony prominences, highly mobile, or those of the lower extremities unless absolutely necessary
  • 45.
    ✓Check for thefluid and other equipment for infusion IV containers should be inspected for cloudiness, discoloration, or presence of precipitate. Verify expiration date. Inspect IV stand or pump and IV start kit for possible defects and contamination ✓Use aseptic technique in assembling the infusion & during insertion Universal / Institutional Infection control protocol
  • 46.
    ✓ Regulate IVFinto desired flow rate. Consider factors affecting flow rate: -Human error -Patency of tubing -Height of IV stand -Patient position-Fluid volume in the container ✓ Know when to change or discontinue the infusion. -Doctor's order and hospital policy ✓ Monitor for signs of complications. -Complications of IV therapy ✓ Document the procedure (date and time therapy is initiated, type of infusion, flow rate, insertion site)