iv therapy 1

Question 1

Intravenous (IV) infusion

Answer 1

into a peripheral vein is a common
therapeutic intervention used to administer fluids, electrolytes
and medications

Question 2

inserting an IV line involves an

Answer 2

invasive,
painful procedure that breaks the integrity of the skin, leaving
a portal for infection. IVT infection is one of the biggest
causes of hospital-acquired infection (HAI)

Question 3

Assessments during IV maintenance are subdivided

Answer 3

nto local, systemic and equipment assessment. Assess the person for
signs of each of the possible complications on a regular basis. Eight-hourly assessments are a minimum.

Question 4

Local assessment

Assess the IV insertion site for the following:

Answer 4

Infiltration –
Phlebitis –
Cellulitis –

Question 5

Infiltration

Answer 5

extravasion fluid flowing into the tissue surrounding the vein. Signs are a blanched (pale), cool area with pain/burning at
the insertion site, swelling, tightness and a slowed flow rate
. If infiltration occurs, stop the infusion and remove the catheter, apply a compress – cold for
irritating fluid or warm for neutral fluid elevate the
limb if possible, check the pulses and capillary refill on that limb (compartment syndrome is a possibility)
and have the IV restarted in the other arm or well above the site of infiltration.

Question 6

Phlebitis

Answer 6

inflammation of the vein wall from irritation by the fluid, medications or the cannula. It causes pain,
inflammation, heat, swelling and redness at the site, tracks up the vein, possibly causes malaise and an elevated
temperature (febrile). If phlebitis occurs: stop the infusion and remove the catheter,
apply a warm pack, and have the IV restarted elsewhere.

Question 7

Cellulitis

Answer 7

an HAI of the tissues surrounding the insertion site. It causes a warm or hot area with swelling. The person
could be febrile and report malaise. If cellulitis occurs stop the infusion and remove the catheter.
Culture the tip and any exudate at the site of insertion. Monitor the person’s vital signs, call their medical practitioner and anticipate antibiotic
administration
Assess the patency of the IV cannula by compressing the cannulated vein
proximal to the insertion site

Question 8

Systemic assessment

Answer 8

Monitor for signs of circulatory overload, fluid volume deficit, septicaemia, hypersensitivity and pulmonary or air embolism

Question 9

Assessment of fluid and equipment

Answer 9

determine that the fluid is infusing as ordered
· confirm that the solution is the one prescribed
· determine the rate, and alter it if it is not correct
· calculate the amount absorbed
· note the amount remaining to be infused

Question 10

Gathering equipment is an organisational

Answer 10

s an organisational step that helps to create a positive environment for a successful
interaction. It ensures that you have all needed material, boosts the person’s confidence and trust in you,
and increases your self-confidence

Question 11

equipment for iv

Answer 11

Fluid order sheet
Watch with a second hand
Alcowipes, chlorhexidine in alcohol
wipes
Sterile intermittent infusion lock
device
Syringe with saline or heparin flush
solution
Sharps container

Question 12

INTRAVENOUS THERAPY MANAGEMENT

Answer 12

Hand hygiene
Monitor or change flow rate
Change clothing for a person with an intravenous line
Assist a person with an intravenous line to ambulate
Change solutions on an established intravenous line
Change the dressing
Convert to a saline lock