Indications For IV Cannulation

Indications For IV Cannulation

• Fluid Resuscitation: Rapid administration of fluids for hypovolemia (low blood volume) caused by dehydration, hemorrhage, or burns.
• Medication Administration: Delivering medications intravenously allows for precise control and rapid onset of action, especially for critical care situations or when oral administration is not possible.
• Electrolyte Replacement: Treating electrolyte imbalances like potassium or sodium deficiencies.
• Nutritional Support: Providing nutrients (especially in situations where oral intake is not possible) through intravenous solutions.
• Blood Transfusions: Administering blood products for anemia, blood loss, or other situations requiring blood volume replacement.
• Parenteral Nutrition: Providing nutrition intravenously when the gastrointestinal tract can't absorb nutrients.
• Pain Management: Administering analgesics intravenously for severe pain.
• Diagnostic Studies: Administering contrast agents for imaging procedures.

Equipment Needed For IV Cannulation

• IV Cannula: Various sizes and gauges available based on patient needs and vein size.
• IV Tubing: Sterile tubing to connect the cannula to the IV solution bag.
• IV Solution Bag: Sterile solution appropriate for the patient's needs (e.g., normal saline, dextrose).
• IV Solution Administration Set: Includes a clamp, filter, and drip chamber.
• Alcohol Prep Pads: For sterilizing the insertion site.
• Gloves: Sterile gloves to prevent transmission of infection.
• Gauze and Bandages: To cover the insertion site, and absorb any leakage.
• Sharps Container: To safely dispose of used needles.
• Tourniquet: To temporarily constrict blood flow to the vein area.
• Protective Eyewear: To protect from sharps.
• Adhesives: To secure IV tubing.
• Extra Supplies: Antiseptic wipes, lubricant, needle/lancets, clamps, bandages(sterile).

Procedure Steps For IV Cannulation

• Patient Preparation: Inform patient about the procedure, obtain consent if necessary. Ensure necessary equipment and supplies are available & sterile.
• Site Selection: Evaluate the patient's veins for size, patency, and location. Look for appropriate veins to puncture that are uninflamed, undamaged, or have no visible complications.
• Site Preparation: Apply alcohol prep pads for site disinfection in a circular motion.
• Tourniquet Application: Apply a tourniquet high above the insertion site.
• Cannulation: Insert the needle bevel up to puncture the vein.
• Needle/Catheter Advancement: Advance the catheter (once piercing the skin), and then remove the needle from the catheter.
• IV Fluid Attachment: Connect the plastic tubing to the IV catheter.
• IV Fluid Administration verification: Verify the correct solution and flow rate are being delivered through monitoring of the infusion.
• Tourniquet Release: Release the tourniquet.
• IV Site Dressing: Secure the cannula with an appropriate dressing.
• Documentation: Record the site, IV fluid type, size of catheter, patient response, and any complications.

Potential Complications

• Infiltration: IV fluid leakage into the surrounding tissues. May cause swelling, pain, discomfort.
• Hematoma: Formation of blood clot on the site. This is a sign of bleeding, usually bruising around the puncture site.
• Phlebitis: Vein inflammation or irritation, potentially causing pain and redness along the path of the vein's puncture site.
• Thrombophlebitis: Formation of a blood clot within the vein (alongside inflammation).
• Infection: Insertion of the catheter causes break of the skin barrier; bacteria may invade tissue. Signs include redness, swelling, and a fever.
• Air Embolism: Presence of air in the IV fluid causes issues with blood flow.
• Extravasation: The leakage of medication or contrast agent out of the vein, leading to damage of surrounding tissue.
• Mechanical Complications: Tears, kinks, or disconnections in the tubing; faulty equipment.
• Inappropriate Veins: Venous damage or thrombosis when insertion isn't done correctly.
• Allergic Reactions: Reactions to the IV solution or medication.
• Local Tissue Necrosis: Damage to surrounding tissues, depending on the medication.

Aftercare For IV Cannulation

• Regular Monitoring: Observe for signs of complications, such as swelling, pain, redness, or bleeding at the insertion site. Monitor IV flow rate and solution.
• Dressing Changes: Apply a new dressing as prescribed. Monitor for signs of infection or leakage.
• Removal: Remove the catheter when it's no longer needed (following IV fluid administration). Remove the catheter according to protocol; ideally sterile procedures, and dispose of IV line accordingly.
• Patient Education: Provide details on recognizing and managing complications after removal. Emphasize proper handwashing and care for the insertion site.
• Documentation: Document any complications or changes during the process.