Types Of IV Therapy And Circumstances Where It Is Necessary

Medical conditions sometimes warrant the use of intravenous therapies to support the patient's health. This can be performed while the patient is in the hospital or on an outpatient basis. Intravenous therapy may be necessary just until the patient recovers from his illness. Other people may require it on a long-term basis due to their medical diagnosis. The type of support that is necessary determines whether the patient receives a quick injection or a slow infusion.

Types of Intravenous Therapy

The medications or fluid can enter the body in one of two ways. The first is a quick 'push' via an injection into the vein. Another method is a drip infusion where the medication or fluid slowly enters the body over a set period. This allows constant support. This type of therapy prevents damage to the vein or a toxic reaction at the injection site.

Reasons for Use of Intravenous Therapy

When your doctor recommends IV therapy, the reasons often include:

1. The therapy may prevent dehydration or help maintain the optimal electrolyte balance in the body. This may occur when the patient is unconscious or being prepped for surgery and isn't allowed food or beverages. Another reason this may occur is because the patient is vomiting frequently.
2.  Intravenous therapy may also replace blood or its components in the body. This is necessary due to an injury that causes blood loss or when a large amount of blood is lost during a surgery.
3. Some medical conditions result in the patient being unable to swallow properly or to digest foods. The individual may have experienced a stroke or other medical issues that cause this. The IV therapy provides nutritional support for the patient and prevents the patient from choking or vomiting from the foods or liquids that are necessary to maintain health.
4. IV therapy helps the patient utilize certain medications. The beneficial effects of some medications may be destroyed by the gastric juices in the stomach. Other medications irritate the lining of the throat or cannot be successfully absorbed into the body via the gastrointestinal system. Some medications that are often given via IV are chemotherapy drugs and ones that help prevent or dissolve blood clots. Sometimes pain medications or drugs used for cardiac patients are also administered in this manner.

Your physician will determine the type of intravenous therapy that you require based on your medical history, overall health, and most importantly what type of support or drug is necessary to help improve your condition. For more information about intravenous therapy, contact a wellness professional like Metabolix Wellness or your local physician.

Share