How do I Close an IV Line?

To close an IV line, you'll need to occlude the tubing using a roller clamp.

Steps to Closing an IV Line

Here's a breakdown of how to close an IV line, incorporating the information from our reference:

1. Stabilize the Tubing: Hold the IV tubing securely in your non-dominant hand. This gives you control and prevents accidental movement of the line.
2. Locate the Roller Clamp: Identify the roller clamp on the IV tubing. This is usually a small plastic piece that slides along the tubing.
3. Close the Clamp: With your dominant hand, slide the roller clamp towards its narrow end. This action will squeeze the tubing and stop the flow of fluid. This step, according to our reference, occludes the tubing preventing backflow.

Why is this Important?

• Preventing Backflow: Clamping the tubing prevents blood from flowing back into the IV line after fluid administration has stopped.
• Safety: Properly closing the line ensures no accidental drips or fluid loss.

Closing the Extension Tubing

Specifically, as per the reference, you need to clamp the extension tubing after discontinuing IV fluid administration. This crucial step helps prevent the backflow of blood.

Step	Action	Purpose
1. Secure Tubing	Hold IV tubing with non-dominant hand.	Provides stability.
2. Locate Clamp	Identify the roller clamp on the IV tubing.	Readies clamp for closure.
3. Close Clamp	Slide roller clamp to narrow end, occluding tubing.	Stops flow of IV fluid and prevents backflow after discontinuation.

By following these steps, you can safely and effectively close an IV line.