Nursing Skills
Intravenous (IV) Therapy Management
The administration of fluids, electrolytes, or medications directly into the venous system.
Insertion Assessment
- Select distal vein first; avoid joints if possible.
- Clean site with chlorhexidine; allow to air dry completely.
- Insert needle at 15-30 degree angle until flashback.
- Flush with normal saline to check for patency and infiltration.
Monitoring and Complications
- Assess for infiltration: cool, blanched, edematous skin.
- Assess for phlebitis: redness, warmth, pain, or palpable cord.
- Check for fluid overload: crackles, dyspnea, bounding pulses.
- Change dressings according to facility protocol or if soiled.
Medication Administration
- Always perform the 6 rights of medication administration.
- Verify compatibility if piggybacking medications.
- Flush lines before and after medication administration.
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