KING SAUD UNIVERSITY KING KHALID UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL DEPARTMENT OF NURSING INTRAVENOUS INFUSION UNIT HOME CARE INSTRUCTIONS

S FOR PATIENTS DISCHARGED WITH PERIPHERAL IV CANNULA An IV Cannula is inserted using a needle. However do not be afraid, only a plastic tube will be kept in place. IV cannulas may be kept in patients with difficult veins and prolonged IV medication regimen. IV cannulas will be secured properly by the nurse at the Unit before discharge. At home, it is the responsibility of the patient to adhere to the following steps to prevent dislodgement of the cannula, blockages and infections. 1. If the IV cannula is inserted in an part of the body which bends such as the elbow or wrist, a splint may be applied to prevent the blocking or kinking of the IV cannula. 2. The cannula should not be pulled or manipulated. Do not remove the dressing yourself; this will be assessed by the nurse every time the medication is given. 3. When bathing or washing, make sure the dressing remains clean and dry. You may apply a plastic covering to prevent the dressing from getting wet. 4. If the cannula comes out, please remain calm. There will be slight bleeding on the site but it is not a major problem. Remove all the remaining cannula and dressing slowly and cover the area with gauze and apply pressure over the site for at least 2 minutes. When the bleeding stops, apply a plaster / band-aid to the area. 5. Contact the IvIU at 467-1154 if the cannula gets dislodged or if you observe any of the following. There is a nurse available in the Unit everyday from 07:30 am to 11:30 pm. a. If the skin around the cannula is red, hot, painful, swollen or hard. b. There is a noticeable line going up the arm from the insertion site. c. If the cannula site has fluid or blood leaking from it. d. If rash, flushed red face or itching develops e. If a high temperature develops. f. If pain is experienced either in or around the cannula site, or in the arm or leg where the cannula is sited. THANK YOU FOR YOUR COOPERATION!