IV Therapy Course

Lesson 1 • Regulatory and Safety Framework

Outlines infection control standards, documentation requirements, and professional accountability in IV therapy. Establishes a safety-first mindset.

Lesson 2 • Fluid and Electrolyte Physiology

Explains fluid compartments, osmolality, and electrolyte balance. Provides the physiological basis for selecting appropriate IV solutions.

Lesson 3 • Anatomy of the Venous System

Identifies peripheral and central venous structures relevant to IV access. Builds anatomical literacy needed for safe site selection.

Lesson 1 • IV Medication Pharmacokinetics

Explains absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion specific to IV-administered drugs. Grounds dosing decisions in pharmacokinetic principles.

Lesson 2 • Colloid and Blood Products

Describes colloids and blood-derived products used for volume expansion and replacement. Highlights indications, contraindications, and monitoring needs.

Lesson 3 • Crystalloid Solutions

Differentiates isotonic, hypotonic, and hypertonic crystalloids by composition and effect. Connects tonicity to fluid shift outcomes in patients.

Lesson 4 • High-Alert IV Medications

Focuses on medications with narrow therapeutic windows requiring heightened vigilance. Applies safety protocols to reduce harm from high-alert drugs.

Lesson 1 • Equipment Troubleshooting

Addresses common equipment malfunctions including occlusion alarms and air-in-line alerts. Develops systematic problem-solving for uninterrupted therapy.

Lesson 2 • Needleless Connectors and Add-Ons

Explains needleless connector types, flushing protocols, and add-on device use. Reduces infection risk through proper connector management.

Lesson 3 • IV Catheters and Needles

Compares catheter gauges, lengths, and materials for peripheral and central access. Guides selection based on therapy duration and patient condition.

Lesson 4 • Infusion Pumps and Controllers

Covers volumetric pumps, syringe pumps, and patient-controlled analgesia devices. Builds competency in programming, alarming, and safe pump operation.

Lesson 1 • Site Selection and Assessment

Evaluates veins by palpation, visibility, and patient history to choose optimal insertion sites. Reduces complications through systematic pre-insertion assessment.

Lesson 2 • Difficult Venous Access Strategies

Addresses techniques for patients with poor venous access including vein dilation and ultrasound guidance. Expands insertion success rates in challenging populations.

Lesson 3 • Catheter Insertion Procedure

Guides step-by-step peripheral catheter insertion from tourniquet application to securement. Builds procedural confidence through structured skill rehearsal.

Lesson 4 • Catheter Securement and Dressing

Demonstrates securement methods and transparent dressing application to stabilize catheters. Prevents dislodgement and site infection through proper fixation.

Lesson 1 • Accessing Implanted Ports

Demonstrates non-coring needle selection, port palpation, and aseptic access technique. Builds confidence in port access while protecting device integrity.

Lesson 2 • Types of Central Venous Devices

Compares PICCs, non-tunneled CVCs, tunneled catheters, and implanted ports by indication and design. Guides appropriate device selection for therapy type.

Lesson 3 • CLABSI Prevention Bundles

Applies evidence-based insertion and maintenance bundles to prevent central line-associated bloodstream infections. Integrates bundle compliance into daily nursing practice.

Lesson 4 • Central Line Maintenance Protocols

Covers flushing, dressing changes, and cap replacement schedules for central lines. Maintains catheter patency and reduces central line-associated bloodstream infection risk.

Lesson 1 • Concentration and Dilution Math

Calculates drug concentrations, dilution ratios, and admixture volumes for IV preparation. Prevents under- and over-dosing through precise concentration math.

Lesson 2 • Infusion Time and Volume Calculations

Determines total infusion time and remaining volume for ongoing IV therapies. Supports accurate scheduling and handoff communication.

Lesson 3 • Weight-Based Dosing Calculations

Computes mcg/kg/min and mg/kg/hr infusion rates for vasoactive and critical care drugs. Applies weight-based math to high-stakes clinical scenarios.

Lesson 4 • Units of Measurement and Conversions

Reviews metric units, weight-based dosing conversions, and time expressions used in IV calculations. Establishes the mathematical foundation for all infusion math.

Lesson 1 • Local Complications at the IV Site

Identifies infiltration, extravasation, phlebitis, and hematoma by signs and grading scales. Enables early detection and appropriate intervention at the insertion site.

Lesson 2 • Incident Documentation and Reporting

Applies structured documentation and incident reporting processes following IV complications. Supports quality improvement and professional accountability.

Lesson 3 • Catheter Occlusion Management

Differentiates thrombotic, mechanical, and precipitate occlusions and their resolution strategies. Restores catheter function while preventing catheter damage.

Lesson 4 • Systemic Complications

Covers circulatory overload, air embolism, septicemia, and speed shock as systemic IV risks. Builds recognition and emergency response skills for life-threatening events.

Lesson 1 • Home and Ambulatory IV Therapy

Prepares patients and caregivers for self-managed IV therapy in outpatient and home settings. Ensures safe continuation of therapy beyond the acute care environment.

Lesson 2 • Geriatric IV Therapy Adaptations

Modifies technique for fragile veins, altered skin integrity, and polypharmacy in older adults. Reduces complication rates through age-specific assessment and insertion adjustments.

Lesson 3 • Pediatric IV Therapy Considerations

Adjusts catheter selection, fluid volumes, and insertion technique for neonates and children. Addresses developmental and physiological differences that affect IV management.

Lesson 4 • Critical Care IV Infusion Management

Manages multi-lumen catheters, vasoactive drips, and hemodynamic monitoring in ICU settings. Integrates IV therapy into complex critical care patient management.