Iv Fluids

Front 1

Overview

Back 1

Fluid balance is necessary to maintain homeostasis.
• IV therapy is initiated by nurses to help provide additional fluids to help
restore normal fluid balance.
• Electrolytes, such as potassium, are added to IV solutions based upon
the client’s serum electrolyte levels.
• Nurses are responsible for:
– Administering the correct solution.
– Monitoring the flow rate.
– Monitoring infection or inflammation at the IV site.

Front 2

Isotonic

Back 2

A solution of same osmotic pressure as body
fluids, which does not cause any fluid shift from
one compartment to another.

Front 3

Hypotonic

Back 3

A solution of lower osmotic pressure than body
fluids in which fluid moves into the cells, causing them to enlarge.

Front 4

Hypertonic

Back 4

A solution of higher osmotic pressure than body
fluids in which solutions pull fluid out of cells.

Front 5

0.9% normal saline
• D5W
• Lactated Ringer’s

Back 5

• Isotonic
• Fluid overload
• During a surgical procedure

Front 6

• 0.45% normal saline

Back 6

• Hypotonic
• Used for cellular dehydration
• Moves fluid into the cell

Front 7

• D5W in 0.9% normal saline
• D10W

Back 7

• Hypertonic
• Moves fluid into intravascular
space

Front 8

Nursing Measures

Back 8

• Monitor IV site for signs and symptoms of infiltration (redness, cool,
edema, pain).
• Assess IV solution type and flow rate.
• Monitor for signs of fluid imbalance correction.
• Monitor serum electrolyte levels.
• Monitor for signs of fluid overload:
– Distended neck veins.
– Edema.
– Shortness of breath.
– Crackles.
– Increased blood pressure and pulse.

Front 9

Complications to IV Therapy

Back 9

• Infiltration
– Nonvesicant solution into the skin
• Manifestations
– Pallor
– Local swelling at site
– Slow infusion
– Dressing damp
– Decreased skin temperature
• Treatment
– Stop the infusion.
– Remove the catheter.
– Encourage range of motion.
– Apply warm or cold compress.
• Based on the solution that caused the infiltration

Front 10

Complications to IV Therpy

Back 10

• Infiltration of a vesicant or tissue damaging medication
• Manifestations
– Pain
– Burning
– Redness
– Swelling
• Treatment
– Stop infusion.
– Notify provider.
– Notify RN.
– Follow facility protocol.