What's the purpose of IV Therapy?

IV Therapy: Many Uses

IV therapy (or intravenous therapy) delivers fluids, medications, or vitamins directly into the bloodstream. This is the fastest method to deliver blood products, medications, and other fluids directly into the circulatory system. IV therapy can be administered via an intravenous catheter. It is either delivered by injection using a syringe, infusion (also known as a drip), or through a needle.

The IV therapist will place the IV and monitor the patient for any side effects or reactions. The IV therapist continuously monitors the patient to ensure that the dose is adjusted in the event of any side effects. Many LPNs and RNs are interested in becoming IV therapists.

A Brief History of IV Therapy

IV therapy can be used as both a lifesaving therapy and as a wellness therapy like vitamin IV therapy. However, this was not always the case. Since ancient times blood therapy was popular. Blood was considered a therapeutic substance and bloodletting was common. The medical understanding of blood and blood types, as well as infectious agents such as pyrogens, has held IV therapy back for many centuries.

IV Therapy in the Early Years

In the 17th century, IV therapy was attempted for the first time. However, the results were not great and the practice was eventually abandoned in favor of more reliable treatments for the next two centuries. IV therapy was reintroduced in the 19th century. However, it was not well understood and used only in extremely critical cases.

The Advent of Plastics

During WWI, IV therapy was a viable treatment. With the invention of plastic bags and IV catheters, IV therapy has become the highly effective and lifesaving treatment that it is today.

Different types of IV Therapies

There are three types of IV therapy available: blood administrative IV therapy (blood therapy), drug administration IV therapy (drug therapy IV therapy) and fluid administrative IV treatment (fluid therapy IV therapy).

IV Hydration and Fluid Therapy

An IV with fluids may be necessary to replace blood lost in an accident, or any other situation where blood volume is low. You might also get fluids in an IV to help you stay hydrated when you are too sick or dehydrated.

IV Blood Transfusion

A blood transfusion may be necessary if you have lost too much blood or if your red blood cells count drops too low. An IV can also be used to give blood transfusions.

IV Pain Medication

An IV push is a procedure that injects pain medication into an IV catheter. An IV can also be used to add medication such as antibiotics to an existing IV. This is known as piggyback or secondary additive. This is a common way to store medications that have a long shelf life, such as antibiotics for an infection.

The Myers Cocktail

The Myers cocktail IV infusion therapy is used to treat hangovers and general wellness. John Myers invented it in the 1960s. It contains vitamins and minerals that can increase wellness after drinking. This is often a sought-after option in boutique IV clinics. IV therapy can also be used to correct vitamin and electrolyte deficiencies in heavy drinkers who have suffered from acute ethanol toxicities after an excessive alcohol intake.

IV Therapy for Sports

Athletes used to love IV hydration therapy. However, new rules by the World Anti-Doping Agency have made it illegal to inject more than 100mL per hour for athletes. This is due to the possibility of changing blood test results or masking urine tests results. It can also be used to administer illegal substances to enhance sports performance. For athletes who push their bodies to the limits, IV therapy can be a viable option for healing and wellness.

IV Therapy in the Health and Wellness Industry

Individuals of all ages, including athletes, can benefit greatly from IV therapy such as vitamin infusions. This is to support overall wellness and long-term health. Infusion therapy is often offered by health and wellness centers as part of their services. This can be used to treat acute medical conditions or for clients who wish to achieve their health goals.

Start your Health and Wellness Journey

IntraVenous IV Infusion Therapy is a treatment that can treat multiple acute injuries and nutritional deficiencies. Vitalityivlounge Health offers intravenous treatment for vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. These are delivered directly into your bloodstream. Vitalityivlounge health offers infusion therapy to help you achieve your goals for fitness, general wellness, and fight that hangover.