Name of the Procedure:

Introduction of Needle or Intracatheter, Vein
Common names: Intravenous (IV) line insertion, IV cannulation, Venous cannulation

Summary

Intravenous (IV) line insertion involves placing a needle or a catheter into a vein to deliver medications, fluids, or for blood sampling. This is commonly performed in hospitals and clinics.

Purpose

Medical Condition or Problem

IV line insertion addresses the need for rapid delivery of medications, fluids, blood products, or nutrients and allows for blood sampling without repeated needle sticks.

Goals or Expected Outcomes

• Rehydration
• Administration of medications or nutrients
• Blood transfusion
• Conducting diagnostic tests

Indications

Specific Symptoms or Conditions

• Dehydration
• Severe infections requiring IV antibiotics
• Chronic conditions requiring frequent blood tests
• Surgical patients needing anesthesia and fluids

Patient Criteria

• Need for medication or fluid administration
• Requirement for blood transfusion
• Patients with difficult venous access

Preparation

• Fasting is generally not required.
• Inform healthcare provider about any medications being taken.
• Diagnostic tests such as blood work may be done beforehand.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is typically seated or lying down.
2. The skin over the chosen venipuncture site is cleaned with an antiseptic.
3. A tourniquet is applied above the site to fill the veins with blood.
4. A needle or an IV catheter is inserted into the vein.
5. Once in the vein, the needle is removed, leaving the catheter in place.
6. The catheter is then secured and connected to an IV line for fluid or medication delivery.

Tools, Equipment, Technology

• IV catheter or needle
• Tourniquet
• Antiseptic wipe
• Securement device or tape
• IV tubing and fluids

Anesthesia or Sedation

Typically, none is required. Local anesthesia may be used for patients with needle anxiety.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 5-15 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is performed in various settings, including hospitals, emergency rooms, outpatient clinics, and surgical centers.

Personnel

• Nurse or phlebotomist
• Sometimes a physician or anesthesiologist for difficult cases

Risks and Complications

Common Risks

• Minor pain or discomfort at the injection site
• Bruising or swelling

Rare Risks

• Infection
• Vein irritation or phlebitis
• Infiltration (IV fluid leaking into surrounding tissue)

Benefits

• Rapid administration of fluids and medications
• Quick blood sampling
• Decreased need for repeated needle sticks

Recovery

• Ensure the IV site is kept clean and dry.
• Monitor for signs of infection or complications.
• Typically, no significant recovery period is needed.

Alternatives

• Oral medications
• Subcutaneous or intramuscular injections
• Long-term central venous access devices (e.g., PICC lines)

Pros and Cons

• Oral medications are less invasive but less immediate.
• Subcutaneous or intramuscular injections can provide medications without IV access but might not be as rapidly effective.

Patient Experience

Patients may experience mild discomfort during insertion. Once the catheter is in place, it typically causes no pain. Post-procedure, care instructions will be provided to ensure comfort and prevent complications.