Chapter 8. Intravenous Therapy
8.13 Summary
Infusion therapy is a common treatment in the hospital setting, and vital for patient recovery. The safe management of IV equipment and procedures related to IV therapy is an essential skill for safe patient care. This chapter reviewed the skills necessary to care for a patient receiving IV therapy, and the benefits and complications related to peripheral intravenous therapy, central venous catheters, blood and blood products, and PN.
Key Takeaways
- Use strict aseptic technique when preparing and maintaining all IV solutions and equipment. Most complications related to IV therapy can be prevented.
- Be alert and vigilant, and assess for complications as per agency policy.
- Keep up to date with recommendations for safe care with IV therapy from the Centers for Disease Control and Canadian Patient Safety Institute.
- There are many types of equipment and procedures related to IV therapy. Educate yourself on the various types of equipment and devices to care for your patient safely.
- Receive the appropriate training for initiating IVs, CVC care and maintenance, and blood and blood product transfusions.
- Remember that patients on IV therapy are at an increased risk for fluid overload. These patients include the elderly, young, and those with cardiac and/or renal disease.
- Follow all transfusion policies to avoid transfusion errors. Be alert to the potential complications of blood and blood product transfusions.
- Complete all daily assessments related to a patient receiving PN. These patients are generally quite ill and have a diminished ability to tolerate complications.
Suggested Online Resources
1. Canadian Blood Services: Clinical Guide to Transfusion. These educational materials provide guidelines for the care of patients receiving blood or blood products. This information includes blood administration, adverse reactions, blood components, emergency transfusions, pediatric and neonatal transfusions, and more.
2. Drug Calculations. This medication calculation website reviews how to calculate the dosages for parenteral and non-parenteral medications, and IV fluids. It also includes metric conversions and IV drop rate calculations.
3. Fraser Health: Central Venous Catheters in Adult Patients. This self-learning online module is designed for health care professionals and covers central venous catheter (CVC) care and maintenance.
4. Fraser Health: Peripheral Intravenous Initiation. This self-study online module covers initiating intravenous (IV) therapy.
5. Intravenous Fluid Selection. This sample chapter from a textbook describes the selection of IV fluids and solutions, and includes study questions as well.
6. Nursing Made Incredibly Easy: The Nurse’s Quick Guide to IV Drug Calculations. This article provides a simple and concise way to perform accurate IV drug calculations.
References
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