Overview
This lecture covers the basics of IV sets, including components, types of lines, how IV pumps and clamps work, types of fluids, and different IV access methods.
Components of an IV Set
- An IV set includes the IV bag, tubing, pump, and patient catheter.
- The IV bag holds the ordered fluid or medication.
- IV lines transport fluid from the bag to the patient.
Primary and Secondary IV Lines
- The primary line is the main line spiked into the IV bag; it usually has ports, roller clamps, and slide clamps.
- The secondary line, or piggyback, connects to the primary line and is used for medications; it is shorter and usually lacks injection ports.
Drip Chambers and Drop Factor
- The drip chamber is a soft plastic part at the top of the IV line used to count drops and prevent air influx.
- Drip factor indicates how many drops equal one milliliter (e.g., 60 drops/mL or 15 drops/mL), shown on the tubing packaging.
Clamps and Flow Control
- Roller clamps adjust the flow rate by partially closing the tubing.
- Slide clamps either fully stop or allow flow; no partial adjustment.
IV Pumps
- Most hospitals use pumps to control fluid delivery, making drop-counting less common.
- Pumps require setting infusion volume and rate (e.g., "1000 mL at 100 mL/hr").
- In practice, set volumes slightly less than the bag size to avoid introducing air.
Other Pump Types
- Syringe pumps administer small, precise fluid amounts over time.
- PCA (Patient Controlled Analgesia) pumps allow patients to self-administer limited pain medication doses.
IV Access Types
- Peripheral IVs are placed in arm veins using a catheter sheath left in the vein; sizes range from 14G (large) to 24G (small).
- Central IVs have their tip near the heart and are used for difficult access or strong medications; can have multiple lumens.
- PICC (Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter) lines are long catheters inserted into the arm, reaching near the heart.
Common IV Fluids
- Normal saline (NS; 0.9% sodium chloride) is frequently used.
- D5 (5% dextrose) is glucose in sterile water.
- D5 ½ NS is a mixture of dextrose and half-normal saline.
- Lactated Ringers (LR) contains various electrolytes.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Drip Chamber — a chamber where IV fluid drips so the rate can be observed or calculated.
- Drip Factor — number of drops needed to equal 1 mL, labeled on tubing.
- Roller Clamp — device to adjust flow rate by compressing the IV tubing.
- Slide Clamp — device that fully stops or allows IV flow (no adjustment).
- Peripheral IV — catheter placed in a vein, usually in the arm.
- Central IV — catheter whose tip is near the heart, for long-term or potent drugs.
- PICC Line — peripherally inserted central catheter, usually from the arm to near the heart.
- PCA Pump — patient-controlled pain relief device.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review drip factors and infusion time calculations in your textbook.
- Prepare for the next section on drip calculations and practice problems.