There is no difference; the terms are synonymous. "IV" is an abbreviation for intravenous, meaning "within a vein." An intravenous injection is a method of administering medication or fluids directly into a vein.
Types of Intravenous Administration
While both are intravenous, there are different methods of administering fluids or medication intravenously, resulting in differing timelines and administration rates:
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IV Push (Bolus): This involves a rapid delivery of a single dose of medication directly into the bloodstream. This method is quick. (Reference: "An IV push injection rapidly delivers a single dose of medicine directly into the bloodstream and takes very little time.")
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IV Infusion (Drip): This involves a slower delivery of medication or fluids over a longer period. The rate can be precisely controlled, unlike the rapid delivery of an IV push. (Reference: "In comparison, the IV infusion takes longer as it relies on gravity", although the dosage rate can be controlled more minutely by monitoring the drops per minute.") IV infusions are sometimes called IV drips. (Reference: "Infusion is just like an IV drip")
Intravenous therapy encompasses both of these methods, utilizing a venous access device (VAD) for administration. (Reference: "Intravenous infusion therapy consists of administration of fluids and medications through a peripherally or centrally located venous access device (VAD).")
Intravenous injections (IV) are the fastest way to introduce medication into the body. (Reference: "An IV injection is the fastest way to inject a medication and involves...") They can be used for various purposes, including administering fluids, medications, and nutrients directly into the bloodstream. (Reference: "IV fluids are liquids injected into a person's veins through an IV (intravenous) tube.")
