An intravenous (IV) drip is a medical procedure used to deliver fluids, medications, and nutrients directly into a patient’s bloodstream through a thin, flexible tube known as an IV catheter. It is a crucial and widely used method in healthcare, designed to enable rapid and controlled administration of various substances to treat a wide range of medical conditions.
The infusion system usually consists of a bag with sterile solution, an infusion catheter and a tubing set. The solution in the bag may contain saline (salt water) or other specialized fluids depending on the patient’s needs. Medications, such as antibiotics, pain relievers, or chemotherapy drugs, may also be added to the IV solution.
The IV catheter is inserted into a vein, usually in the arm or hand, by a trained healthcare professional. Once in place, the fluid or medication flows from the bag through the tubing and directly into the patient’s bloodstream. This method ensures rapid and precise administration of the substance, allowing immediate absorption and therapeutic effects.
IV infusions are used in a variety of medical scenarios, including rehydration for patients with dehydration, administration of medications that need to take effect quickly, delivery of nutrients to patients who cannot eat, and blood transfusions. IV therapy has become an indispensable tool in modern medicine, providing a lifeline for patients in need of timely and effective treatment.
