An intravenous drip is an informal term for a continuous infusion of fluid, medication or nutrition delivered directly into a vein via a cannula (a short plastic tube inserted into a vein, usually in the arm or hand). The fluid flows from a bag or bottle, through a giving set (a thin plastic tube with a drip chamber), and into the vein at a controlled rate. The rate may be regulated by gravity with a manual clamp or, for more precise delivery, by an electronic infusion pump or syringe driver.
In the intensive care unit following cardiac arrest, patients typically have multiple IV lines running simultaneously. Common infusions include vasopressor drugs such as noradrenaline (to maintain blood pressure), sedation and analgesia (to keep ventilated patients comfortable), intravenous fluids for volume replacement, and electrolyte solutions to correct imbalances in sodium, potassium or magnesium. Some medications, such as amiodarone for arrhythmia management, are also given as continuous IV infusions rather than single bolus doses because they require sustained blood levels.
A syringe driver (or syringe pump) is a motorised device that delivers very small, precise volumes of concentrated medication over time, typically used for potent drugs where accuracy is critical. In patients who need nutrition delivered intravenously (total parenteral nutrition, or TPN), a dedicated central line is usually used, as these solutions can damage peripheral veins.
As patients recover and are able to swallow medications and fluids orally, intravenous infusions are progressively discontinued and cannulas removed. Patients sometimes ask about the bruising or tenderness at old cannula sites after discharge from hospital: this is normal and usually resolves within a few days.
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