Iv catheter

Definition

An IV catheter is a thin, flexible tube inserted into a vein to deliver fluids, medications, or nutrients directly into the bloodstream. This device is essential for intravenous therapy and blood product administration, providing a reliable access point for various treatments, including hydration, medication administration, and blood transfusions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. IV catheters come in various sizes, measured in gauge, which indicates the thickness of the catheter; smaller gauge numbers indicate larger diameters.
2. Placement of an IV catheter must be aseptic to minimize the risk of infection; proper hand hygiene and skin disinfection are crucial.
3. Complications from IV catheter use can include phlebitis (inflammation of the vein), infiltration, and infection, highlighting the need for regular monitoring.
4. The duration of IV catheter use can vary; peripheral catheters are generally used for days while central lines may remain in place for weeks or even months.
5. Saline locks are often used with IV catheters to keep the vein open without continuous fluid flow; this allows for intermittent medication administration.

Review Questions

• How do you evaluate the placement and functioning of an IV catheter during patient care?
  • Evaluating the placement and functioning of an IV catheter involves checking for signs of patency, such as blood return when aspirating. Additionally, nurses should assess the site for swelling, redness, or warmth that could indicate complications like infiltration or phlebitis. Regular monitoring ensures that the catheter is delivering medications effectively and that there are no adverse reactions occurring at the insertion site.
• What are some critical considerations in selecting the appropriate type of IV catheter for a patient’s treatment plan?
  • When selecting an IV catheter, it's essential to consider factors like the duration of therapy, type of fluids or medications to be administered, and the patient's vein condition. For short-term use with smaller veins, a peripheral IV may be suitable. In contrast, if long-term access is needed or if larger volumes need to be infused quickly, a central line would be more appropriate. Patient comfort and potential complications must also be taken into account.
• Discuss how understanding potential complications associated with IV catheters can improve patient outcomes in clinical settings.
  • Understanding potential complications like infiltration, phlebitis, and infection allows healthcare providers to implement proactive measures to minimize risks. By educating patients on signs of complications and performing routine site assessments, healthcare teams can identify issues early. Additionally, utilizing evidence-based practices for insertion and maintenance can reduce complication rates, thereby improving overall patient outcomes and satisfaction during intravenous therapy.

Related terms

Peripheral IV: A type of intravenous catheter inserted into a small peripheral vein, often used for short-term therapy.

Central Line: A longer catheter placed in a large vein, typically used for prolonged therapy or when frequent blood draws are needed.

Infiltration: A complication where the IV catheter has moved out of the vein and fluid enters the surrounding tissue, causing swelling and discomfort.