IV Therapy for Nurses Course

Lesson 1 • Fluid and Electrolyte Physiology

Explains fluid compartments, osmolarity, and electrolyte balance as they relate to IV fluid selection. Provides the physiological rationale for clinical decision-making.

Lesson 2 • Regulatory and Safety Standards

Introduces professional standards, infection control mandates, and scope-of-practice requirements governing IV therapy. Ensures nurses practice within legally and ethically defined boundaries.

Lesson 3 • IV Equipment Identification

Familiarises nurses with catheters, tubing, connectors, and infusion devices used in IV therapy. Correct equipment identification reduces setup errors and adverse events.

Lesson 1 • Aseptic Insertion Technique

Teaches step-by-step catheter insertion using maximal sterile barrier precautions. Correct technique is the primary defence against catheter-related infection.

Lesson 2 • Site Selection and Patient Assessment

Guides systematic evaluation of patient history, vein condition, and therapy duration to choose the optimal insertion site. Proper assessment reduces complications and failed attempts.

Lesson 3 • Catheter Stabilisation and Dressing

Covers evidence-based methods for securing catheters and applying sterile dressings. Proper stabilisation prevents dislodgement, phlebitis, and infection at the insertion site.

Lesson 1 • Crystalloid Fluid Classification

Differentiates isotonic, hypotonic, and hypertonic crystalloids by composition and clinical use. Accurate classification prevents dangerous fluid-electrolyte imbalances.

Lesson 2 • Parenteral Nutrition Solutions

Introduces total and peripheral parenteral nutrition composition, indications, and administration requirements. Connects nutritional support to vascular access planning.

Lesson 3 • Colloid and Blood Product Infusions

Explains colloid solutions and blood products, their oncotic properties, and transfusion indications. Nurses will differentiate colloids from crystalloids and apply transfusion criteria.

Lesson 1 • Alarm Recognition and Response

Covers common pump alarms, their causes, and appropriate nursing responses. Timely alarm resolution prevents therapy interruption and patient harm.

Lesson 2 • Types of Infusion Delivery Devices

Compares volumetric pumps, syringe pumps, elastomeric devices, and patient-controlled analgesia systems. Selecting the correct device matches therapy requirements and care setting.

Lesson 3 • Programming Rates and Dose Limits

Teaches accurate rate entry, weight-based dosing calculations, and drug library use. Correct programming is the primary pump-related error prevention strategy.

Lesson 1 • High-Alert IV Medications

Identifies medications with the highest harm potential when given intravenously and the safeguards required. Independent double-checks and smart pump use are emphasised.

Lesson 2 • Drug Compatibility and Stability

Addresses physical and chemical incompatibilities between IV drugs and solutions. Nurses will use compatibility resources to prevent precipitate formation and drug degradation.

Lesson 3 • Intermittent and Continuous Infusions

Distinguishes piggyback, secondary, and continuous infusion setups and their clinical applications. Proper setup ensures therapeutic drug levels and prevents incompatibility events.

Lesson 4 • IV Push Medication Technique

Covers preparation, dilution, and controlled delivery of IV bolus medications. Correct push technique prevents adverse haemodynamic and local vascular effects.

Lesson 1 • Local Vascular Complications

Identifies infiltration, extravasation, phlebitis, and haematoma by clinical signs and grading scales. Early recognition and grading guide appropriate intervention and documentation.

Lesson 2 • Transfusion Reactions

Describes acute and delayed transfusion reactions, their mechanisms, and nursing management. Rapid identification and stopping the transfusion are the first critical steps.

Lesson 3 • Catheter Removal and Site Care

Teaches indications for catheter removal, safe removal technique, and post-removal site assessment. Timely removal reduces infection risk and preserves vascular integrity.

Lesson 1 • CVAD Types and Indications

Differentiates peripherally inserted central catheters, tunnelled catheters, implanted ports, and non-tunnelled CVCs. Matching device to therapy duration and patient need is emphasised.

Lesson 2 • CVAD Insertion Assistance and Verification

Covers the nurse's role during CVAD insertion, sterile field maintenance, and tip position confirmation. Correct tip placement verification prevents life-threatening complications.

Lesson 3 • CVAD Dressing and Flushing Protocols

Teaches evidence-based dressing change intervals, flushing volumes, and locking solutions for CVADs. Consistent protocols maintain patency and prevent catheter-related infections.

Lesson 1 • Critical Care IV Therapy

Covers vasoactive drug infusions, arterial line monitoring, and rapid fluid resuscitation in the ICU. Nurses will manage complex multi-line setups and haemodynamic monitoring.

Lesson 2 • Oncology and Chemotherapy Infusions

Introduces vesicant chemotherapy administration, extravasation management, and port access in oncology patients. Strict protocols protect patients from severe tissue injury.

Lesson 3 • Paediatric IV Therapy Considerations

Addresses age-specific vein selection, fluid volume calculations, and pain management during paediatric IV insertion. Developmental approach reduces procedural distress and complications.

Lesson 4 • Home and Ambulatory IV Therapy

Prepares nurses to educate patients and caregivers managing IV therapy in non-hospital settings. Safe home infusion requires patient competency verification and clear emergency protocols.