IV Site Care Instructions
Upon completion of IV therapy, the small catheter that was used to deliver fluid into the vein will be removed. It is usual for a small amount of blood to be present after removal. Direct pressure will be applied to the site to minimize bleeding, and gauze and a bandage will then remain.
- Leave the bandage in place for 30 minutes.
- It is normal to experience some tenderness at the insertion site.
- Check the site for bruising and swelling.
- If bruising or swelling occurs, an ice or cold pack can be placed on the area for 10-20 minutes at a time. Make sure that the skin is protected with a thin cloth barrier.
- Daily activities, including bathing and showering, may resume after IV therapy.
- Red streaks in the skin near the insertion site
- Fluid, blood, or pus leaking from the IV site.
- Swelling, pain, and/or redness at the IV that does not improve or gets worse.
- New onset fever of 100.4 F (38 C) or higher unless otherwise directed by the provider.