Name of the Procedure:

Intravenous Infusion, Additional Hour

Summary

This procedure involves the administration of fluids, medications, or nutrients directly into the bloodstream through a vein. It is conducted to continue the infusion therapy beyond the initial period, providing additional treatment time for therapeutic, prophylactic, or diagnostic purposes.

Purpose

Medical Condition or Problem it Addresses

• To treat a variety of conditions such as dehydration, infections, and chronic illnesses.
• To administer prolonged treatments such as chemotherapy or immunotherapy.
• To provide sustained nutritional support when oral intake is insufficient.

Goals or Expected Outcomes

• Effective and continuous delivery of necessary medications or nutrients.
• Improved clinical outcomes for prolonged or chronic conditions.
• Stabilization or improvement of the patient’s condition.

Indications

• Continued need for therapeutic medication or fluids beyond the initial period.
• Specific chronic or acute conditions that require extended intravenous treatment.
• Patient scenarios where prolonged drug delivery is necessary to achieve desired medical outcomes.

Preparation

• Follow the same pre-procedure instructions provided for the primary intravenous infusion.
• Ensure the intravenous line is properly maintained and check for any signs of infection or complications.
• Monitor vital signs and adjust any standing medications under healthcare provider guidance.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Assessment: Verify the need for continued infusion and review patient’s medical records.
2. Preparation: Ensure all equipment and medications are ready. Prepare the infusion fluid, setting, and rate as per the primary prescription.
3. IV Line Maintenance: Check the intravenous line for patency and secure it properly.
4. Administration: Continue the infusion by administering the prescribed solution through the existing intravenous line.
5. Monitoring: Continuously monitor the patient for any adverse reactions and ensure the infusion site remains free from complications.
6. Adjustment: Adjust the infusion rate as necessary based on patient response and medical orders.

Tools, Equipment, or Technology Used

• Intravenous infusion pump or gravity drip
• Sterile saline flushes
• Infusion bags or bottles with prescribed solutions
• Sterile dressings and gloves

Anesthesia or Sedation Details

• Not typically required. Local anesthesia may be used if insertion or adjustment of the intravenous line is painful.

Duration

• Each additional hour, beyond the initial infusion period.

Setting

• Hospital, outpatient clinic, or any healthcare setting equipped for intravenous therapy.

Personnel

• Registered nurses
• Medical doctors
• Infusion specialists

Risks and Complications

Common Risks

• Local site reactions: redness, swelling, or pain. ##### Rare Risks
• Infection
• Phlebitis (vein inflammation)
• Extravasation (leakage of fluid into surrounding tissue)

Management

• Regular monitoring of the infusion site and patient’s vitals.
• Immediate intervention if complications arise, such as stopping the infusion and providing appropriate treatment.

Benefits

• Continuation of necessary therapeutic or nutritional support.
• Ability to deliver medications that require an extended period to be effective.
• Stability and improvement in the patient's health condition.

Recovery

• Minimal recovery time needed as this is a continuation of an ongoing therapy.
• Possible post-procedure instructions include monitoring the infusion site for any delayed complications and maintaining regular follow-up appointments.

Alternatives

• Oral medications or enteral nutrition (if feasible).
• Subcutaneous injections or other routes of administration.
• Pros: Less invasive alternatives may reduce the risk of infection.
• Cons: May not be as effective for patients requiring high or rapid uptake of medications or fluids.

Patient Experience

• The patient may feel mild discomfort at the infusion site.
• Continuous monitoring and comfort measures will be in place.
• Pain management protocols will be followed as per the primary infusion guidelines to ensure patient comfort.

Pain management and comfort measures include ensuring the intravenous site is secured properly and minimizing movement to prevent irritation.