What Is an Intravenous Line?
An intravenous (IV) line is a tube that is inserted into a vein via a needle. Once the tube is inserted, the needle is taken away and the tube remains in the vein. The main purpose of an IV line is to administer substances directly into the bloodstream. It can be used to give fluids to dehydrated patients and be used in intravenous therapy.
Routes of administration are ways in which drugs, fluids, and other substances can enter the body. Some routes of administration include oral, intravenous, intramuscular, inhalation, and absorption. Each method has its own effect, duration, and level of comfort. Doctors typically utilize the intravenous, intramuscular, or oral route.
An intravenous line is a type of intravenous route of administration, as opposed to receiving an injection. Most IVs work via the drip method, which helps to keep air from seeping into the vein. This method generally allows for a continuous and controlled dose of medication that goes directly into the bloodstream.
Commonly known intravenous substances include chemotherapy, hydrating fluids, and medicinal morphine – though most substances can be given through an intravenous line. Many times a flush of saline water is administered through the IV to clean out the tube and make sure the full dose of medicine is administered. Intravenous lines can be an effective way to inject medicine into the body: once in the bloodstream, the medicine is carried throughout the body as the heart cycles the blood. This usually allows for a drug to quickly take effect.
There are negatives, however, to this method of medication delivery. Whenever the skin is penetrated or opened, the risk of infection increases. This can be dangerous if a person does not properly clean the equipment, as this could allow blood-borne infections to travel easily from person to person.
Sometimes, an intravenous line can blow a vein. This can be painful for a patient, and can cause bruising and swelling. Using an intravenous line also can increase the chance of a drug overdose since the IV sends the medicine directly into the bloodstream.
Written by Nicholas J. Novak
