More than 80% of hospital patients receive some form of IV therapy during their stay, according to recent healthcare studies. That means understanding how a catheter IV works is a must if you’re learning to become a nurse. If you’re in an A&P class or thinking about starting one, this is one of the first clinical skills you’ll hear about and for good reason. IV catheters are used every day to give medicine, fluids, and even nutrition.

This guide will help you out to learn more about catheter IV. You’ll learn what a catheter IV is, the different types, how it’s used, how to care for it, and what problems to watch for. This will provide you with the fundamentals you need to feel secure, regardless of whether you’re just beginning off or preparing for your first clinical rotation. 

What is an IV Catheter?

IV Cathetera thin, flexible tube placed into a vein to deliver fluids or medicine. It helps patients get what they need quickly, especially in emergencies or during hospital stays.

This tool is used often in hospitals and clinics. It’s a basic but important part of patient care. Learning how it works is one of the first steps in medical or nursing training.

IV Catheter Insertion Procedure

1.Gather Supplies

Prepare the following supplies: gauze, tape, antiseptic wipes, gloves, an IV catheter, and a tourniquet.

2.Prepare the Site

Clean the area with antiseptic and let it dry to lower infection risk.

3.Insert the Catheter

Until blood starts to return, carefully slide the needle into the vein.

4.Secure and Flush

To guarantee flow, secure the catheter with tape and flush with saline.

Before starting an IV, it’s important to know which catheter to choose. The decision depends on how long the treatment will last and what the patient needs. If you’re unsure, explore the types of catheters for IV to understand which one works best for each situation.

How to Choose the Right IV Catheter?

To choose the right catheter IV, think about how long the treatment will last and what it’s for. Look at the patient’s age, vein size, and overall condition. Peripheral lines work for short-term needs. Strong medications or long-term care are better served via central lines. LPNs may not insert every type, but they help monitor the site and report issues quickly. Always follow facility guidelines and care plans.

Conclusion

Learning how to care for a catheter IV is an important part of nursing. It’s a skill that helps save lives, reduce risks, and improve patient comfort. From insertion to maintenance, understanding each step can make a big difference in clinical care. Even though this guide didn’t cover the types of catheters, it gives you a solid start on how they’re used and why they matter. Knowing the basics now helps you grow faster during hands-on training.

If you’re looking to build your skills and knowledge, especially in medical procedures and anatomy, start with the right education. Searching for anatomy classes near me is a smart first move. At Verve College, we offer real-world training that prepares you for success as a practical nurse. Our courses are designed to make learning clear, simple, and focused.

Want to Make a Career in Nursing? Get More Information About Our Courses!

Get started today. Join Verve College and take the first step toward your nursing career with confidence.

In the 1970s, many children with sickle cell disease didn’t live past their teenage years. But today, thanks to better care and education, the story is different. New data from 2025 shows that more people with sickle cell disease are living well into their 40s, 50s, and beyond. (more…)

In 2025, over 7 million older Americans will have Alzheimer’s, and the number is rising. Many families now turn to natural remedies for support. LPNs play a key role in holistic care, using simple methods like music, touch, and healthy routines to improve comfort. Each natural remedy for dementia patients offers gentle ways to ease stress, improve sleep, and boost mood. (more…)

In 2025, over 20% of U.S. adults live with chronic pain, according to national health reports. Many residents in Oak Brook are dealing with ongoing conditions like arthritis, back pain, nerve pain, or pain after surgery. (more…)

In 2025, about 29 million people in the U.S. are living with asthma. Over 11 million reported having at least one asthma attack this year. Asthma makes it harder to breathe by tightening the airways, which can also raise the heart rate. This is why keeping an eye on vital signs matters in asthma care. For caregivers, knowing the normal heart rate for asthma patient care helps catch problems early. (more…)

Recent studies show that three out of four Americans are dehydrated daily. Dehydration happens when your body loses too much water, leading to weakness, dizziness, or worse. IV fluids quickly replace lost water and salts to keep you healthy. (more…)

In 2025, about 16.5 million adults in the U.S. are living with atopic dermatitis (AD). More than half say it affects their sleep, mood, and everyday routines. For adults, AD isn’t just dry, itchy skin; it can lead to cracked skin, infections, and even visits to the clinic for things like an intravenous solution for dehydration caused by skin loss and fluid imbalance. (more…)

Patient medical records include key health details like test results, medical conditions, and prescribed treatments. In 2025, 77 percent of patients were offered online access, and 65 percent used it. Usage grew fastest among people aged 35 to 49. With more data shared through apps, understanding who owns patient medical records is key to protecting privacy and ensuring control over personal health data. (more…)

Did you know that almost 1 in 5 medication doses in hospitals have some kind of error? Medication errors occur when a patient receives the wrong medicine, dose, or method of administration. Acting fast is very important to keep patients safe and healthy. (more…)

In the U.S., over 90% of hospitalized patients receive IV therapy, making IV catheters an essential part of medical treatments. These small but powerful tubes allow doctors and nurses to deliver fluids, medications, and nutrients directly into the bloodstream. (more…)