Intravenous Therapy and Venipuncture

Course Description:

One- day workshop where participants will review the circulatory system, standard precautions and factors to consider prior to collection of blood samples and initiation of peripheral intravenous therapy. Student will practice on simulated setting in the laboratory.

Prerequisites:

-RN or RPN

Learning Outcomes:

At the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:

• Identify and describe the anatomy and physiology of the venous system.
• Describe the precautions to use to prevent the spread of infection and self-contamination.
• Locate the veins used for venipuncture and peripheral IV access.
• Identify the equipment used for venipuncture and for the delivery of intravenous therapy.
• Understand the physiological implications of IV infusion and electrolyte imbalance.
• Perform venipuncture on a training arm, secure and dress the site.
• Identify approaches to prevent, detect and minimize complications.
• Document appropriate information in the patient’s clinical record.
• Describe the procedure for administering blood and blood products, monitoring flow rate, performing tubing and fluid changes, assessing IV site, discontinuing IV and assessing the client for adverse reactions.
• Identifying signs of IV site infection.