Taking medicines can be an intimidating experience, particularly for children. While some medicines can be taken by mouth, others need to be delivered intravenously.
In severe cases where a patient can’t swallow pills or liquids, the intravenous method is often the preferred option. When you or someone else is likely to receive medication intravenously, having questions and concerns is entirely normal.
Intravenous medication delivery is a vital part of modern healthcare. However, before you proceed, you should take a moment to consider some essential factors that can ensure your safety and well-being.
In this article, we’ll guide you through four essential considerations that should be on your radar before taking medication intravenously.
Select the Appropriate Intravenous Delivery Device
When it comes to receiving medication intravenously, one of the most important choices is picking the right device to do it. This choice isn’t just about personal preference as it directly impacts the effectiveness of your treatment and your overall comfort during the process.
To begin, you should consider the nature of your treatment and the prescribed medication. Some medications require a simple IV catheter, while others might necessitate a more specialized device, like a central line or a port. The choice should align with your specific medical needs and the duration of your treatment. Your healthcare provider will guide you in selecting the most suitable option, ensuring that your intravenous medication delivery is both safe and efficient.
Regardless of the choice, the advantages associated with intravenous mode of delivery remain paramount. According to a recent study published in the National Library of Medicine, some of these advantages include:
- Quick initiation of effects
- Consistent and nearly full absorption of the drug
- Ideal for extremely unwell and unconscious patients who cannot consume medications orally
Understand Potential Risks and Side Effects
Before proceeding with intravenous medication, you must be aware of the potential side effects. While intravenous delivery can be highly effective, it’s not without its drawbacks. Being aware of what to look for can assist you in making smart choices regarding your treatment.
When medication is administered directly into your bloodstream, there’s a risk of adverse reactions, including allergic responses or infection. You must communicate any prior medical conditions or allergies to your healthcare provider to minimize these risks.
Certain medicines can make you feel sick, or tired, or affect your blood pressure, so it’s important to know about these possible effects. Being informed about these possibilities allows you to better anticipate and manage any complications that may arise during your treatment.
It’s important to note that certain intravenous devices, like the Bard PowerPort, have been associated with potential complications. According to TorHoerman Law, people using Bard PowerPort devices might be at a greater risk of getting injured because the catheter could fail.
In fact, many individuals have experienced these health effects, prompting them to file a Bard PowerPort lawsuit. These victims are leveraging the services of attorneys to bolster their cases and enhance their chances of obtaining maximum compensation. Through these lawsuits, they also seek to raise awareness about the potential health risks associated with these devices.
Evaluate Dosage and Administration Protocols
When it comes to intravenous medication, precision is key. Ensuring that you receive the correct dosage and adhere to administration protocols is vital for the success of your treatment.
Initially, your healthcare provider calculates the precise medication amount based on factors like your weight, age, and condition. This meticulous dosage determination is aimed at optimizing the therapeutic effect while minimizing the risk of side effects or complications.
Along with accurate dosing, following proper administration protocols is equally important. Intravenous medications often require a specific rate of infusion and careful monitoring. Deviating from these established protocols can lead to adverse reactions or reduced treatment effectiveness.
Within the realm of evaluating dosage and administration protocols, it’s crucial to shed light on a significant scenario observed in Intensive Care Units (ICUs). Patients admitted to ICUs often rely on intravenous medications for their treatment, necessitating meticulous attention to dosage management and calculation.
However, this heightened complexity also presents a potential challenge i.e. a higher risk of medication errors. In the intensive care environment, where patients often grapple with severe medical conditions, the intricacies of intravenous medication management become even more pronounced.
Due to severe health conditions, many patients are unconscious and cannot report adverse drug reactions. This context underscores the importance of evaluating dosage and administration protocols with utmost care and precision.
Consult With Healthcare Professionals
Before proceeding, you need to consult with healthcare professionals who possess the expertise to guide you through this process. They’re your trusted partners in making informed decisions about your treatment. These professionals, including doctors and nurses, will assess your specific medical condition and tailor your intravenous medication plan to your unique needs.
Their expertise extends to the selection of the most suitable intravenous delivery device, which aligns with your treatment goals and comfort. Healthcare professionals are your allies in navigating the complexities of intravenous medication. To achieve desired results, engage in open communication with them throughout your healthcare journey.
With a growing number of healthcare professionals adopting this method, the IV industry is poised for high growth. As per a report by MarketsandMarkets, the global intravenous (IV) equipment market is likely to increase from a value of $10.07 billion in 2017 to reach $13.64 billion by 2022.
This remarkable growth indicates the significance of consulting with healthcare professionals when it comes to intravenous medication. With the booming market, healthcare professionals are well-equipped to provide the most up-to-date information and guidance regarding intravenous treatments. Their expertise ensures that you receive the latest advancements in IV equipment and protocols.
In Conclusion
In the journey of receiving medication intravenously, taking a moment to consider these four vital aspects can make all the difference. Your well-being should be your top priority, and these considerations empower you to take charge of your intravenous medication experience.
