Intravenous (IV) therapy is a common medical treatment that involves delivering fluids, medications, and nutrients directly into a patient’s bloodstream through a vein. IV therapy is used to treat a wide range of medical conditions, such as dehydration, infection, and cancer. It is also used to administer blood transfusions, chemotherapy, and other critical medications. As such, the proper administration of IV therapy is crucial to patient safety and recovery. Before going into a deep discussion, you can also check out Certificate IV in Aged Care; it’s the most in-demand course for healthcare professionals in Australia.
Healthcare professionals who administer IV therapy must undergo comprehensive training and education to ensure they are competent and qualified to perform the procedure safely and effectively.The type of training and education required for healthcare professionals who administer IV therapy varies depending on their job responsibilities and the level of care they provide. In general, there are three main types of healthcare professionals who administer IV therapy: registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and paramedics.
RNs
Registered Nurses (RNs) are the primary healthcare professionals responsible for administering IV therapy. RNs are licensed healthcare professionals who have completed a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree or a two-year Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program. RNs must also pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to obtain their nursing license.
RNs receive comprehensive training and education on IV therapy during their nursing program. They learn about the anatomy and physiology of the circulatory system, the principles of fluid and electrolyte balance, and the types of IV fluids and medications used in clinical practice. RNs also learn how to assess a patient’s veins, select the appropriate catheter size and type, and perform sterile techniques to prevent infection.
In addition to their initial nursing education, RNs must also undergo ongoing training and education to maintain their IV therapy skills. Many hospitals and healthcare organizations provide IV therapy certification programs and continuing education courses for RNs to update their knowledge and skills in IV therapy.
LPNs
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) also administer IV therapy, although their scope of practice is more limited than RNs. LPNs are licensed healthcare professionals who have completed a one-year practical nursing program and passed the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).
LPNs receive basic training and education on IV therapy during their practical nursing program. They learn how to prepare IV solutions, administer IV medications, and monitor patients for adverse reactions. However, LPNs cannot perform advanced IV therapy procedures, such as central line insertions or PICC line placements.
Paramedics
Paramedics are another group of healthcare professionals who administer IV therapy in emergency situations. Paramedics are licensed healthcare professionals who have completed a two-year Associate Degree in Paramedicine program and passed the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam.
Paramedics receive basic training and education on IV therapy as part of their paramedicine program. They learn how to establish IV access, administer IV fluids and medications, and monitor patients for adverse reactions. However, paramedics typically do not perform advanced IV therapy procedures, such as central line insertions or PICC line placements.
In addition to the initial education and training, healthcare professionals who administer IV therapy must also adhere to strict guidelines and protocols to ensure patient safety. They must follow standard precautions to prevent infection, such as using sterile technique and proper hand hygiene. They must also monitor patients closely for adverse reactions and respond promptly to any changes in their condition.
Conclusion
In conclusion, healthcare professionals who administer IV therapy must undergo comprehensive training and education to ensure they are competent and qualified to perform the procedure safely and effectively. The type of training and education required varies depending on the healthcare professional’s job responsibilities and the level of care they provide. Registered Nurses receive the most comprehensive education and training in IV therapy, while Licensed Practical Nurses and Paramedics receive basic training and education. Regardless of their level of education and training, healthcare professionals who administer IV therapy.