IV therapy is one of the most effective ways you can provide your body with the needed nutrients in a short time. You may also benefit from the high absorption rate of the vitamins and minerals. However, before you get one, it’s important to get familiar with the IV insertion steps.
Although it might seem like a straightforward process, IV insertion requires precision, technique, and a deep understanding of the procedural steps. Each one is important so you can avoid experiencing side effects caused by improper IV insertion and handling.
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Pre-Procedure Steps
The IV therapy should start with a short getting-to-know session between you as a patient and the nurse. The nurse should ask you a series of questions about your condition and explain the entire procedure.
By doing an evaluation and analyzing your past medical history, the nurse should ensure you are a suitable candidate to get the desired IV therapy. Also, you should be aware of the potential risks of getting IV therapy.
The best mobile IV therapy services in AZ have friendly nurses who will do everything to make you comfortable during the whole procedure. For you as a patient, the most important step is choosing an experienced IV therapy provider.
Gathering the needed equipment
Next, the nurse administering the IV should check if all the needed equipment is within arm’s reach. When it comes to the types of equipment, nurses typically have primary and secondary administration sets.
The primary administration sets are used for administering fluids, electrolytes, or medication. They can be administered using an infusion pump or taking advantage of gravity.
On the other hand, the secondary administration sets are used for secondary medication, typically antibiotics. They can be used by connecting them to the primary IV set. In regards to mobile IV therapy, a secondary set is not required.
The administration sets for IV therapy include the following equipment:
Sterile spike
Roller clamp
Drip chamber
Back Check valve
Access ports
In addition, the nurse should have the following things:
Alcohol cleanser
Gloves
Alcohol wipes
Tourniquet
IV cannula
Plasters or gauze
Syringe
A bag of IV fluid
Clinical waste bin and container for sharps
Before opening any equipment of its original packaging or starting the procedure, the nurse should pay attention to hand hygiene and put on gloves.
IV Insertion Procedure
The nurse should clean the site. Typically, an aseptic agent such as Chlorclean is used to clean the trolley and the tray where the nurse places the equipment.
Here is how to start an IV step by step.
Preparing the IV line and bag
The first step for preparing the IV line and IV therapy bag is preparing the tubing. The IV solution should be checked by the nurse. The nurse will hand your IV solution bag and fill the tubing with saline. There should be no bubbles in the IV line. Next, the nurse will open the IV by removing the needle cap and ensuring the catheter hub is ready to use.
Choosing the right IV needle
There are different IV needle sizes. It’s your nurse’s job to choose the right one for you. The most commonly used IV gauge sizes are from 18 to 24. Also, the gauge should be determined according to the IV fluid’s thickness and viscosity. The gauge size is important because it regulates the amount of IV fluid that will be administered.
Vein location and identification
One of the first things that are learned in clinical nursing school is navigating the vascular system. An experienced nurse will easily find a vein to insert the IV catheter.
The most commonly used technique involves using a tourniquet, typically an elastic one. The nurse will apply a tourniquet above the intended IV site. The tourniquet shouldn’t be too tight, but it should be able to dilate your veins so the nurse can find them more easily.
Other techniques include:
Palpation technique- locating veins by gently pressing the fingers on the site.
Gravity assistance- hanging your arm down to increase your blood flow so the nurse can find the vein easily.
Warming the area- dilating veins by using a warm towel or a heating pad to find a vein.
Hydration- if you want to help your nurse out, you can stay well-hydrated, making your veins more accessible.
Tapping the area- blood flow in the veins can be stimulated with gentle tapping and make the veins more visible.
Vein finder device- nurses can also use the infrared light coming from vein finder devices to visually locate the veins.
Besides finding the location of the vein, the nurse should assess if the vein is suitable for an IV. It is advisable for nurses to administer IV therapy in veins on the non-dominant arm that are in good condition. The vein should feel slightly rounded, spongy, bouncy, and elastic.
Catheter and tubing insertion
The next step of the IV insertion procedure is positioning your arm. After you are comfortably seated or laid down, the nurse will disinfect and clean the puncture site.
The nurse then proceeds by removing the catheter from its packaging and inspecting it for any damage. Then, the protective cap is removed, and the nurse will insert the needle into your arm.
The needle will be removed while slowly putting the catheter into the vein. A sterile bandage will be placed over the catheter hub to keep it in place. Finally, the IV tube will be inserted into the catheter hub and secured by locking it in place.
Maintaining the IV
While the IV fluids are administered, the nurse should maintain the flow of the IV. In addition, the nurse also monitors and checks for any complications. Although complications are rare, medical professionals must be on the lookout for them.
Removing an IV
After the bag with fluids is emptied, the nurse should remove the IV. First, of course, comes hand hygiene and putting on gloves. Next, the nurse will continue by loosening the ends of the transparent dressing, or the bandage, around your insertion area and putting in a gauze.
The nurse will pull out the IV cannula. It should be done in one quick motion. Immediately after that, a firm pressure should be applied to avoid blood leakage. During the time, the nurse will dispose of the cannula and every other equipment used.
After the nurse ensures the IV insertion area isn’t bleeding, the area should be secured with gauze and tape.
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Post-Procedure Steps
As important as the IV insertion steps is the follow-up care. Typically, after you get the IV therapy, the nurse will shortly monitor your insertion site and look for possible side effects.
You have a crucial role in post-procedure care. Frequently checking the area for swelling, redness, or bruising is recommended. If you notice mild bruising or swelling, you can use a cold pack to take the bruising down.
Generally, you might be able to go back to your regular activities after a while. However, avoiding physically demanding activities for a day or two is recommended. If you experience any severe side effects, you should immediately contact a medical professional.
Conclusion
Inserting an IV is generally a safe procedure. However, it is important for the nurse to follow the IV insertion steps, ensuring your comfort, safety, and successful treatment delivery.
