Intravenous Lines
Original Editor - Jin Yoo Top Contributors - Jin Yoo and Kim Jackson
Introduction [1][edit | edit source]
In the acute care setting, intravenous (IV) lines have varied functions:
- to infuse fluids, nutrients, electrolytes, and medication
- to obtain venous blood samples
- to insert catheters into the central circulatory system
Common areas of placement are in the forearm or back of the hand.
Types of Venous Access [2][edit | edit source]
Peripheral IV (PIV)[edit | edit source]
Overview:
- Common and preferred method for short-term therapy (< 6 days)
- A short intravenous catheter is inserted by percutaneous venipuncture into a peripheral vein
- Held in place with a sterile transparent dressing to keep site sterile and prevent accidental dislodgement
- Upper extremities are the preferred sites for insertion
- Usually attached to IV extension tubing with a positive pressure cap
Chemical and mechanical complications include phlebitis, infiltration, extravasation, hemorrhage, and local infection.
Systemic complications include pulmonary edema, air embolism, catheter embolism, and catheter-related bloodstream infection.
Central Venous Catheter (CVC)[edit | edit source]
Overview:
- Also known as a central line or central venous access device
- Inserted into a large vein in the central circulation system (guided by ultrasound)
- Tip of catheter terminates in the superior vena cava leading to an area just above the right atrium
- Can remain in place for more than a year
Commonly seen in patients who:
- require antineoplastic medications
- are seriously/chronically ill
- require vesicant/irritant medications
- require toxic medications/multiple medications
- require central venous pressure monitoring
- require long-term venous access/dialysis
- require total parenteral nutrition
- require medications with a pH greater than 9 or less than 5 OR osmolality of greater than 600mOsm/L
Complications[edit | edit source]
Common complications with IV administration include cellulitis, phlebitis, thrombosis, sepsis, air embolus, and pulmonary thromboembolism. [1]
Resources[edit | edit source]
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References[edit | edit source]
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 Dutton M. Introduction to Physical Therapy and Patient Skills. New York: McGraw Hill; 2014.
- ↑ Doyle GR, McCutcheon. Clinical Procedures for Safer Patient Care. Victoria, BC: BC Campus; 2015 Available from: https://opentextbc.ca/clinicalskills/ [Accessed 18th April 2019].