Understanding I.V. Therapy: Purpose, Uses, and Risks

I.V. stands for Intravenous, which refers to a medical procedure in which a substance is administered directly into a vein through an injection or infusion. The purpose of I.V. therapy can vary depending on the specific treatment, but it is commonly used to deliver medications, fluids, or nutrients to patients who are unable to take them orally or when rapid absorption is necessary.

Some common uses of I.V. therapy include:

1. Administering antibiotics for bacterial infections
2. Providing fluids and electrolytes to patients who are dehydrated or have lost a lot of fluid due to vomiting or diarrhea
3. Delivering pain medication or sedatives to patients undergoing surgery or other medical procedures
4. Providing nutrients to patients who are malnourished or have difficulty eating due to a medical condition
5. Administering chemotherapy drugs to cancer patients
6. Providing medications to treat severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis
7. Delivering insulin to diabetic patients
8. Providing medications to treat heart conditions such as heart failure or abnormal heart rhythms.

It is important to note that I.V. therapy should only be administered by trained medical professionals, such as nurses or doctors, and in a sterile environment to minimize the risk of infection or other complications.