Why Do We Need IV?
Intravenous (IV) is the route of administration. It is basically the delivery of fluids, medication, or blood directly into one’s system through veins. This procedure is exceptionally efficient for people who are in dire need of life-saving IV fluids.
Different IV fluids are administered for different reasons. Below are some of the reasons why you might require an IV:
Administration of Pain Medication
In case you have been experiencing some pain that can’t go away regardless of the forms of medications you take, a doctor can decide to deliver pain-relieving medicine through IV. Doing this ensures medication reaches the bloodstream faster – therefore relieving pain much faster than other treatment options.
It is integral to note that most pain medications are powerful and can have a depressant effect on a patient’s nervous system. Therefore, modern hospitals use smart IV pumps to regulate the medication based on a person’s condition. The rate and quantity of IV fluid given also depend on many factors, including age, body size, and a patient’s condition.
Dehydration
Have you experienced some of the following symptoms lately?
- Decreased urine content
- General body weakness
- A sticky or dry mouth
- Regular headaches
- Seizure
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
If your answer is yes, then you need to see a doctor as soon as possible because you might be suffering from severe dehydration. Dehydration is not necessarily a result of a disease. It can occur due to many reasons, including exposing yourself to high temperatures, engaging in sports, drinking alcohol, working out for long hours, spending a lot of time outdoors, and more. One of the most effective ways to replace lost fluids in the body is getting IV therapy.
However, you don’t need to get an IV every time your body is dehydrated. It will only be administered if you are in advanced dehydration stages, and you need fluids replaced fast.
Emergency Treatment
Another reason why we need IV is for Emergency medication. Some of the situations that demand immediate IV therapy include:
- Stroke
- Cardiac arrest
- Drug overdose
- Severe allergic reaction
- Trauma
- Loss of fluids or excessive bleeding
- … and more!
How fast you get an IV during these scenarios could make a difference between life and death. Even when you have been poisoned, getting food poisoning drip is important since it could help combat your dire condition quicker than any other medication.
Malnutrition
An IV can be used to supply a patient’s daily nutritional requirements through two methods – Total parenteral nutrition and Partial Parenteral Nutrition. These methods are essential in helping feed patients who cannot eat on their own due to disorders that need total bowel rest, such as severe Crohn’s disease. They also help feed patients whose gastrointestinal tracts are not functioning properly as well as those who experience difficulty in swallowing.
Surgery
Whether you have an outpatient or inpatient surgical procedure coming up, an IV therapy will have to be undertaken before the procedure’s commencement. In surgery, IV is necessary for administering antibiotics, pain medication, antibiotics, anesthesia, and essential fluids. This process allows medical professionals to quickly and efficiently deliver drugs and fluids that help maintain a patient’s electrolyte, blood sugar, and hydration levels.
At IV Butler, we bring IV therapy to your doorstep to help restore your health and overall wellbeing. To learn more about our services, contact us today! You can email us at [email protected] or call us at (212) 484-9097.