What is securement in IV therapy?

What is securement in IV therapy?

• A. Checking blood glucose
• B. Monitoring heart rate
• C. Determining antibiotic susceptibility
• D. Proper stabilization of the IV catheter to prevent accidental dislodgement

Answer: (D)

Securement in IV therapy means stabilizing and anchoring the IV catheter and its tubing so it stays in place and doesn’t get pulled out or displaced. This is essential because any movement or tension can cause the catheter to migrate, leading to infiltration or dislodgement, interruptions in therapy, patient discomfort, and increased risk of infection. Best practice involves a sterile dressing around the insertion site, a transparent dressing so you can monitor for changes, and a stabilization device or adhesive anchor to hold the catheter securely. The tubing should be routed and taped to minimize tugging and tension, with regular checks and dressing changes per policy. The other tasks listed—checking blood glucose, monitoring heart rate, or determining antibiotic susceptibility—are unrelated to securing the IV line and pertain to different aspects of patient care.

Securement in IV therapy means stabilizing and anchoring the IV catheter and its tubing so it stays in place and doesn’t get pulled out or displaced. This is essential because any movement or tension can cause the catheter to migrate, leading to infiltration or dislodgement, interruptions in therapy, patient discomfort, and increased risk of infection. Best practice involves a sterile dressing around the insertion site, a transparent dressing so you can monitor for changes, and a stabilization device or adhesive anchor to hold the catheter securely. The tubing should be routed and taped to minimize tugging and tension, with regular checks and dressing changes per policy. The other tasks listed—checking blood glucose, monitoring heart rate, or determining antibiotic susceptibility—are unrelated to securing the IV line and pertain to different aspects of patient care.