Name of the Procedure

Common name(s): IV Hanger
Medical term: Intravenous Infusion Hanger (each)
HCPCS Code: K0105

Summary

An IV hanger is a supportive device utilized to hold intravenous (IV) bags securely. This device ensures that IV fluids and medications are delivered smoothly and efficiently to the patient’s bloodstream via an IV line.

Purpose

The purpose of an IV hanger is to facilitate the administration of fluids, medications, or nutrients directly into the vein. This ensures that patients receive necessary treatments continuously and without interruption.

Indications

• Dehydration requiring intravenous fluids
• Administration of medication that is more effective when delivered directly into the bloodstream
• Nutritional support for patients unable to consume food orally
• Blood transfusions
• Chemotherapy treatments

Preparation

Patients generally do not need to prepare specifically for the use of an IV hanger. However:

• Pre-procedure instructions: Follow the specific preparation for the insertion of the IV line itself (e.g., area disinfection, identifying venous access sites).
• Diagnostic tests or assessments: None specific to the IV hanger, but standard clinical tests may be done for the condition being treated.

Procedure Description

1. Evaluation: Patient's clinical needs are assessed to determine the necessity of IV fluids or medications.
2. IV Line Insertion: A healthcare professional inserts an IV catheter into a vein.
3. IV Bag Setup: The IV bag containing fluids or medication is prepared and connected to the IV line.
4. Hanger Adjustment: The IV bag is hung on the IV Hanger, ensuring it is positioned correctly for gravity-assisted flow.
5. Monitoring: The flow rate and the patient's response are closely monitored throughout the infusion.

Tools and Equipment: IV Hanger, IV bags, IV catheter, tubing, and stand.
Anesthesia or Sedation: Typically, none required for the hanger itself; local anesthesia may be used during IV line insertion.

Duration

The procedure for setting up the IV hanger typically takes about 10-20 minutes. The overall duration of IV therapy varies depending on the treatment plan.

Setting

IV Hangers are typically used in:

• Hospitals
• Outpatient clinics
• Emergency rooms

• Surgical centers

  Personnel

• Registered Nurse (RN)
• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
• Physician overseeing the treatment plan
• Medical Technician, if applicable

Risks and Complications

While the IV Hanger itself poses minimal risk, the use of IV therapy can have the following risks:

• Infection at the IV site
• Vein inflammation (phlebitis)
• Infiltration or leakage of IV fluid into surrounding tissue
• Air embolism (rare)

Benefits

The IV Hanger ensures efficient and continuous delivery of crucial treatments:

• Quick and direct fluid and medication administration
• Enhanced patient comfort by minimizing interruptions during infusion
• Optimal positioning of IV bags to ensure proper flow rates

Recovery

• Post-procedure care: Monitor the IV site for any signs of infection or complications.
• Recovery time: Immediate, as using an IV Hanger does not require recovery time.
• Restrictions/Follow-ups: Follow the medical advice related to the overall IV therapy and underlying condition.

Alternatives

• Other treatment options: Oral medications or fluids, intramuscular injections.
• Pros and Cons of Alternatives: Oral and intramuscular methods have slower absorption rates and may not be suitable for all patient conditions compared to IV therapy.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure: Patients may feel a slight discomfort during IV insertion. The IV hanger itself typically doesn't cause discomfort.
• After the procedure: Patients should experience minimal discomfort and benefit from continuous fluid or medication flow. Pain management is typically not necessary for the hanger device, but comfort measures follow standard care procedures.