IV Therapy Notecards

A comprehensive set of 50 flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to intravenous (IV) therapy, focusing on techniques, indications, complications, and types of fluids used.

Fluid and Electrolytes

The study of fluids, their properties, and how they interact with the body's electrolytes.

Intravenous Therapy

A method of delivering fluids, medications, and nutrients directly into patients’ veins.

Peripheral IV Catheters

Small-bore catheters placed in peripheral veins for short-term therapy.

Central IV Catheters

Longer catheters inserted into larger veins for long-term therapies.

Indications for IV Therapy

Reasons for initiating IV therapy, such as medication administration and fluid replacement.

Hypertonic IV Fluids

Fluids with a higher osmolarity than serum, which draw fluid into the bloodstream.

Hypotonic IV Fluids

Fluids with a lower osmolarity than serum, which hydrate cells by shifting fluid out of vessels.

Isotonic IV Fluids

Fluids with an osmolarity similar to serum, maintaining fluid balance without shifting.

Extravasation

Leakage of IV solution into surrounding tissue, potentially causing damage.

Infiltration

Unintended entry of IV solution into the surrounding soft tissue.

Phlebitis

Inflammation of a vein caused by mechanical or chemical irritation.

PICC Line

A peripherally inserted central catheter intended for long-term venous access.

Catheter Size Selection

Choosing the right gauge of catheter based on patient needs and site access.

IV Start Kit

A set of tools required for starting an intravenous infusion.

Tunneled Catheter

A central line catheter that is threaded under the skin before exiting at another site.

Non-tunneled Catheter

A central line catheter that is inserted directly into a central vein.

Complications of IV Therapy

Possible adverse effects arising from intravenous therapy, including infection and infiltration.

Extension Tubing

Tube that connects the catheter to the IV fluids for further reach.

Micro Clave Valve

A needleless connector used in IV therapy to secure medication delivery.

Client Considerations

Factors to evaluate patient-specific needs in IV therapy.

Documentation

Record-keeping of IV therapy including gauge, location, and patient tolerance.

Air Embolism

Air bubble entering the bloodstream, potentially causing severe complications.

Fluid Overload

Excess fluid in the bloodstream leading to heart failure or pulmonary edema.

Patient Assessment

The continuous evaluation of the IV site and patient condition during therapy.

Nursing Considerations

Best practices for administering IV therapy, minimizing risks and ensuring safety.

SVC

Superior vena cava, the location where central venous catheters often end.

IV Medication Administration

The process of delivering medications directly into the bloodstream via IV.

TPN

Total parenteral nutrition, providing nutrients intravenously.

Aseptic Technique

Infection control method during IV insertion and maintenance.

Vein Selection Criteria

Guidelines for choosing appropriate veins for IV catheterization.

Age Considerations

How age affects IV therapy, with particular attention to infants and elderly.

Hydration Therapy

IV treatment aimed at restoring or maintaining fluid balance.

Emergency Situations in IV Therapy

Protocols for immediate action when complications arise, such as extravasation.

Signs of Infiltration

Symptoms indicating fluid leakage into surrounding tissues, such as swelling.

Signs of Phlebitis

Indicators of vein inflammation including redness and warmth.

IV Catheter Removal Protocol

Guidelines for safely removing an IV catheter to prevent complications.

Nursing Interventions for Infiltration

Actions taken to manage and treat infiltration at the IV site.

Assessment of IV Fluids

Evaluating the IV solutions before administration for quality assurance.

Assessment Tools for Veins

Techniques used to evaluate vein condition and suitability for IV access.

Patient Education on IV Therapy

Information provided to patients regarding their IV treatment.

Care of Central Venous Catheters

Specific procedures for managing catheters inserted into large veins.

IV Rate Calculation

Determining the right infusion rates for IV therapy.

Advanced IV Therapy Techniques

Specialized methods for complex IV therapies.

Collaborative Practice in IV Therapy

Teamwork among healthcare professionals for effective IV management.

Long-Term IV Access

Strategies for managing prolonged intravenous therapies.

Vesicant Medication

Drugs that can cause tissue damage if they extravasate from the vein.

Safety Checks for IV Therapy

Procedures to ensure safe delivery of IV medications and fluids.

Types of IV Solutions

Classification of IV fluids based on their osmolarity and intended use.