IV Therapy

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to IV therapy, its administration, complications, and best practices.

IV therapy

The administration of fluids, medications, or nutrients directly into a patient's bloodstream through a vein.

Fluid maintenance

The process of ensuring a patient has adequate hydration and electrolyte balance through IV fluids.

Intermittent IV therapy

IV therapy that involves administering medications or fluids at intervals.

IV push

A method of administering medication directly into the bloodstream through an IV, which allows for immediate effects.

Electrolyte balance

The maintenance of proper levels of electrolytes in the body, critical for normal cellular function.

Total parenteral nutrition (TPN)

A method of feeding that bypasses the gastrointestinal tract, providing essential nutrients directly into the bloodstream.

IV catheter

A thin, flexible tube inserted into a vein to administer fluids and medications.

Peripheral catheter

A catheter inserted into a peripheral vein, typically in the arm or hand.

Blood transfusion

The process of transferring blood or blood products into a patient's circulation.

Hypotonic solution

A solution that has a lower osmolarity than the blood, causing fluid to move into cells.

Isotonic solution

A solution that has the same osmolarity as blood, maintaining fluid balance.

Hypertonic solution

A solution that has a higher osmolarity than blood, drawing fluid out of cells.

Medication order

A formal directive from a physician specifying the medication to be administered to a patient.

MAR (Medication Administration Record)

An official document that records the administration of medications to a patient.

Phlebitis

Inflammation of a vein that may cause redness, swelling, and pain at the IV site.

Infiltration

The unintended administration of non-vesicant fluid into surrounding tissue.

Extravasation

Inadvertent insertion of a vesicant solution into surrounding tissue, leading to tissue damage.

Circulatory overload

An excess of fluid in the circulatory system, potentially leading to heart failure.

Central venous access device

A catheter placed into a large vein for long-term access to the bloodstream.

Non-tunneled catheter

A catheter that is inserted directly into a large vein for short-term use.

Tunneled catheter

A catheter that is inserted into a vein and tunneled through the skin for long-term use.

Complications of IV therapy

Potential adverse effects resulting from IV therapy, including infection, infiltration, and phlebitis.

Aseptic technique

Practices used to prevent infection by maintaining sterility during medical procedures.

Tourniquet application

A method used to make veins more prominent for IV access by temporarily constricting blood flow.

Vein selection

The process of choosing the appropriate vein for IV insertion.

Blood return

The observation of blood in the IV catheter indicating successful venous access.

Centrally inserted catheters (PICC)

Long-term IV access devices inserted into a central vein.

Infusion pumps

Devices that deliver controlled amounts of fluids and medications intravenously.

Compatibility

The ability of two substances, typically medications, to be mixed or given together without causing adverse effects.

Fluid bolus

A rapid infusion of a large volume of fluid, often used in emergencies.

Hypoglycemia

Low blood sugar levels which may occur when TPN is discontinued abruptly.

Patient education

Information provided to patients about their treatment and care, including IV therapy.

Documentation

The process of recording patient care and clinical information in a medical record.

Drip factor

The rate at which IV fluids are administered, typically measured in drops per minute.

Physiological response

The body's reaction to a treatment or medication, varying from patient to patient.

Central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI)

An infection that occurs when germs enter the bloodstream through a central line.

Electrolyte imbalances

Conditions in which the levels of electrolytes in the body are too high or too low.

Gauze application

The use of a sterile pad to cover a wound or insertion site to absorb fluids.

Blood sugar monitoring

The process of checking blood sugar levels, especially important for patients on TPN.

High-viscosity medications

Medications that are thick and may require special handling during IV administration.

Syringe pump

A device that delivers precise amounts of fluid through a syringe for patients such as neonates.

Foley catheter

A tube that is inserted into the bladder to drain urine, not directly related to IV therapy but relevant in nursing.

Fluid balance

The state of equilibrium in the body related to the intake and output of fluids.

Osmolarity

A measure of the concentration of solute particles in a solution.

Nutritional interventions

Actions taken to address dietary needs, especially in patients who cannot eat orally.

Transfusion reactions

Adverse reactions that occur in response to a blood transfusion, which may include fever or allergic responses.

Dialysis access

Vascular access points used for patients undergoing dialysis treatment.

Anticoagulant therapy

Medications that prevent blood clotting, which may affect IV therapy practices.

IV dressing change

The process of replacing the sterile dressing over an IV site to prevent infection.