Intravenous (IV)
Administration of medications or fluids directly into a vein
Definition
Intravenous (IV) administration delivers medications or fluids directly into a vein, producing 100% bioavailability and rapid onset, such as routes include peripheral IV, central venous catheters (CVC/PICC), and implanted ports.
Advantages
- Rapid onset
- 100% bioavailability
- Large volumes possible
- Useful when oral route not available
Nursing Responsibilities
- Verify order, patient, and drug (5 rights)
- Assess IV site every hour (and before/after infusion)
- Check for infiltration (swelling, pain, cool, pale), phlebitis (redness, warmth, tenderness, streak), extravasation (infiltration of vesicant)
- Change peripheral IV sites per facility policy (typically every 72 to 96 hours)
- Use infusion pump for controlled delivery
- Flush with normal saline before/after medication administration
NCLEX Relevance
Stop infusion and notify provider for infiltration/extravasation. Reposition to higher IV site if possible.