IVTT in nursing refers to Intravenous Therapy (IV Therapy), the administration of fluids, electrolytes, medications, blood products, or nutrients directly into a patient's vein. This method allows for rapid absorption and distribution of substances throughout the body.
Purpose of IV Therapy
IV therapy is utilized for a variety of reasons, including:
- Fluid Replacement: To correct dehydration due to illness, surgery, or other conditions.
- Medication Administration: To deliver medications quickly and efficiently, bypassing the digestive system.
- Electrolyte Balance: To correct electrolyte imbalances, such as low potassium or sodium levels.
- Blood Transfusions: To replace lost blood due to injury or surgery.
- Nutritional Support: To provide nutrition to patients who cannot eat or absorb nutrients through the gastrointestinal tract (parenteral nutrition).
Types of IV Solutions
Various types of IV solutions are used depending on the patient's needs:
| Solution Type | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Isotonic Solutions | Solutions with the same osmolality as blood plasma; expands the extracellular fluid volume. | 0.9% Sodium Chloride (Normal Saline), Lactated Ringer's |
| Hypotonic Solutions | Solutions with lower osmolality than blood plasma; shifts fluid into cells. | 0.45% Sodium Chloride (Half Normal Saline) |
| Hypertonic Solutions | Solutions with higher osmolality than blood plasma; draws fluid out of cells and into the vascular space. | 3% Sodium Chloride |
Nursing Responsibilities
Nurses play a crucial role in administering and monitoring IV therapy. Their responsibilities include:
- Insertion and Maintenance of IV Lines: Selecting appropriate insertion sites, inserting catheters, and maintaining patency of the IV line.
- Calculating and Administering Infusion Rates: Ensuring the correct dosage of medication or fluids is administered at the prescribed rate.
- Monitoring for Complications: Observing for signs of infiltration, phlebitis, infection, or allergic reactions.
- Patient Education: Educating patients about the purpose of IV therapy, potential side effects, and when to report concerns.
- Documentation: Accurately documenting all aspects of IV therapy, including the type of solution, infusion rate, and patient response.
Potential Complications
While IV therapy is generally safe, potential complications can occur:
- Infiltration: Leakage of IV fluid into surrounding tissues.
- Phlebitis: Inflammation of the vein.
- Infection: Introduction of bacteria into the bloodstream.
- Air Embolism: Introduction of air into the bloodstream.
- Fluid Overload: Administration of too much fluid, leading to pulmonary edema or heart failure.
- Allergic Reaction: An adverse reaction to the medication or solution being administered.
Nurses are trained to prevent and manage these complications to ensure patient safety.
