Intravenous Therapy

What Is Intravenous Therapy?

Intravenous (IV) therapy is the prehospital administration of sterile liquid solutions (crystalloids like Normal Saline 0.9% or Lactated Ringer's, or colloids) and medications directly into the venous circulation to restore fluid balance, maintain perfusion, or deliver emergency drugs.

Why Intravenous Therapy Matters on the Fireground

Restoring intravascular volume in hypovolemic, septic, or anaphylactic shock requires controlled IV fluid infusion. Paramedics must calculate drip rates, monitor for fluid overload (pulmonary edema), and select appropriate solution types.

Relevant NFPA Standards

• NREMT Standards: National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians Practice Standards
• NFPA 455: Standard for Emergency Medical Services (EMS)

Field Procedures & Tactical Steps

1. Select IV fluid solution (Normal Saline 0.9% or Lactated Ringer's) and inspect bag for clarity, leaks, and expiration date.
2. Select administration tubing: Macrodrip (10, 15, or 20 gtt/mL) for rapid fluid boluses; Microdrip (60 gtt/mL) for medication drips.
3. Spike fluid bag, fill drip chamber halfway, and prime tubing completely to purge all air bubbles.
4. Connect tubing to patient's IV catheter and adjust flow rate using roller clamp or infuser pump.
5. Re-assess patient vital signs, mental status, and breath sounds after every 500 mL of fluid infused.

Common Context & Application

Administered across ALS prehospital calls involving shock, burns, cardiac arrest, diabetic emergencies, and severe dehydration.

Frequently Asked Questions about Intravenous Therapy