IV Therapy

Question 1

What are the 5 IV Therapy complications?

Answer 1

1. Circulatory Overload:
   - Findings: Edema, crackles, & Shortness of breath
   - NI: REDUCE IV rate, Notify HCP, Raise HOB, Monitor VS!!
2. Infiltration (fluid into tissue):
   - Findings: Skin taunt and cool to touch.
   - NI: STOP infusion and start new line, Elevate extremity, apply warm or cold compress
3. Phlebitis (inflammation of vein):
   - Findings: Redness, tenderness, pain, & warmth along vein!
   - NI: STOP infusion, Start new line, Apply WARM compress, Contact HCP, and DON’T RUB or massage area
4. Local infection
   - Findings: Redness, heat, swelling, possible drainage
   - NI: Remove IV/Start a new IV, Culture any drainage, Notify HCP
5. Bleeding
   - Findings: Fresh blood, may be pooling
   - NI: Assess if IV intact, apply pressure, start a new line if needed

Question 2

What are IV Therapy key points/care??

Answer 2

1. Peripheral IV tubing changed EVERY 72 HOURS!!
2. IV site should be monitored every 2 HOURS!!!!!!!
3. IV Solution bag changed every 24 hours!!
4. Make sure IV pump set accurately
5. Scrub the hub!!

Question 3

What are the delegation considerations regarding to IV therapy????

Answer 3

1. IV Therapy CANNOT be delegated to UAP!!!!
2. UAPs can report any patients complaints regarding to IV, dressing becomes loose, IV Pump alarm signals, IV bag is almost empty!!!!
3. Report Any changes in patient’s temperature

Question 4

What is TPN care??

Answer 4

1. Central line (very hypertonic. must be diluted!!)
2. NEED CHEST X-RAY after catheter inserted
3. Need time to adjust to high glucose
   - Wean on and off over 1-2 days!!
   - Check blood glucose q6hr!!!!!
   - Keep rate as ordered, be sure new bag is ready, may bridge with D10W if necessary
4. Prevent sepsis
   - Strict aseptic care of equipment & site
   - Change complete IV tubing and filter with NEW BAG Q24HR!!
5. Use IV pump
6. IV site monitored q2hr