IV Therapy

IV therapy is a delivery method for fluids and medication. “IV” stands for intravenous, which means it’s administered through the veins. The fluid that contains vitamins and minerals or medication is delivered via an IV drip or injection into the vein, which allows the therapy to move quickly through your bloodstream. 

 

IV therapy is a straightforward procedure. Regardless of the type of IV therapy you are receiving, you can expect the process to be pretty uniform. The nurse administering the therapy will talk you through the procedure. Generally, you will be seated somewhere comfortable for the duration of the therapy. The nurse will disinfect the injection site and place a needle directly in a vein. The IV will typically be placed in the arm, but it is possible to be placed elsewhere. 

IV therapies are administered by a healthcare professional, usually a nurse, for a variety of different reasons, from dehydration to medical emergencies. IV therapy can also help address symptoms related to conditions like the cold, the flu, morning sickness, and hangovers. 

 

How Does IV Therapy Work?

Once the IV is inserted, the nurse will check the pump to ensure the rate of delivery is correct. IV therapy can be delivered via a manual pump or an electronic pump. The fluid drips through the catheter and enters your body. Once inside your body, the fluid from the IV bag is absorbed directly into the bloodstream. This method typically delivers medication faster than oral administration. During IV therapy, you need to keep still, so you do not disturb or dislodge the catheter. Aside from that, you can read, watch television or browse on your phone during the process.