Chapter 12: Intravenous Therapy and Blood Administration

Students learn systematic approaches to peripheral IV insertion, including proper site selection criteria, aseptic technique requirements, and ongoing maintenance protocols such as dressing changes and tubing management. The chapter extensively addresses potential complications associated with IV therapy, providing recognition criteria and nursing interventions for conditions including infiltration, phlebitis, hematoma formation, bloodstream infections, catheter embolism, and air embolism, as well as fluid and electrolyte imbalances resulting from inappropriate infusion. Central venous access devices receive detailed coverage, encompassing tunneled catheters, peripherally inserted central catheters, and implantable ports, with specific attention to care protocols, flushing procedures, and infection prevention strategies. The second major focus involves blood product administration, covering packed red blood cells, platelets, and fresh frozen plasma. Students examine the immunological principles of ABO and Rh compatibility, understand crossmatching requirements, identify universal donor and recipient blood types, and learn protocols for safe administration including verification procedures, infusion rate parameters, and solution compatibility. The chapter emphasizes recognition and management of transfusion reactions across their spectrum, from minor allergic responses to life-threatening hemolytic reactions, along with appropriate emergency interventions and documentation requirements. Priority nursing actions for both IV discontinuation and transfusion reaction response are reinforced throughout to ensure student competency in acute clinical situations.