Intravenous (IV) therapy is administered in more than 90% of hospitalized patients as it delivers fluids, nutrients, medication, or blood directly into the bloodstream. However, healthy people can also take this therapy from an IV therapy clinic for hydration or to increase the body’s nutrient levels.
IV therapy is extremely beneficial for people with digestive tract disorders as their digestive tract does not absorb supplements efficiently. IV therapy delivers medication or supplements straight into the bloodstream through a vein to boost medication absorption.
Unfortunately, IV infusions have an error rate of 31%, which can cause the drip fluid to leak into surrounding tissue. This can cause irritation, infection, stroke, or nerve damage in the insertion site. To minimize this risk, you need to select a trusted and qualified IV infusion clinic.
In this guide, you will find out how to locate a reliable clinic for IV infusions. Let’s begin!
What is IV Therapy?
Intravenous therapy is a medical procedure in which fluids, medications, vitamins, minerals, or other therapeutic substances are directly administered into a patient’s bloodstream through a vein. IV drip therapy relies on pharmacokinetics, the study of how substances are absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and eliminated by the body. Using this science, IV therapy offers precise control over the delivery of substances and ensures efficient medicine infusion in the blood.
Oral consumption of pills, nutrients, or electrolytes means the substances must pass through the digestive system. During digestion, supplements dilute with food, and absorption lowers due to stomach acid. Therefore, the primary purpose of this therapy is to deliver essential nutrients or medications straight to the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system.
Additionally, IV therapy provides a rapid onset of therapeutic effects, making it suitable for emergencies where quick intervention is crucial. It also allows healthcare providers to precisely control the dosage of medications, vitamins, or fluids to minimize the risk of over- or under-dosing.
Types of IV Therapies
IV therapies are available in various types, and each is designed to address specific health needs and goals, such as:
- Hydration Therapy: This therapy replenishes lost body fluids through the administration of saline (saltwater) solution. It is efficient in treating dehydration, increasing electrolytes, and maintaining proper fluid balance.
- Vitamin IV Therapy: This therapy delivers essential vitamins and minerals into the bloodstream to address nutrient deficiencies, support immune function, and promote overall health. It mainly provides vitamin C, B-complex vitamins, and minerals like magnesium and zinc.
- Medication IV Therapy: This therapy administers medications into the blood circulation system to achieve rapid and precise therapeutic effects. It is used for pain management, antibiotics distribution, and various medical condition treatments like lupus, migraine, and Crohn’s disease.
- Chelation Therapy: This therapy delivers ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid into the body to remove heavy metals through urine. It can treat conditions like heavy metal poisoning or atherosclerosis.
- IV Immunotherapy: It transfers immunomodulatory substances, such as immunoglobulins, to boost the immune system’s response against infections or autoimmune diseases. It is also used to stop or decrease the growth of cancer cells in various areas.
- IV Detoxification Therapy: This therapy assists in removing toxins from the body with the help of substances like glutathione, amino acids, medical ozone, and other antioxidants.
- Anti-Aging and Skin Rejuvenation IV Therapy: This therapy injects vitamins and antioxidants into the blood to promote skin health, reduce the signs of aging, and strengthen hair and nails.
IV Therapy Process
IV therapy process begins with a consultation with a qualified healthcare provider, such as a doctor, nurse practitioner, or registered nurse. During this consultation, you discuss your health concerns, goals, and any specific symptoms. You also provide a comprehensive medical history, which includes information on any underlying medical conditions, allergies, current medications, and previous experiences with IV therapy.
Based on this information, the healthcare provider determines whether IV therapy is a suitable treatment option for you. If you are eligible for IV therapy, the healthcare provider develops a personalized treatment plan that involves specific fluids, medications, or nutrients for administration. They also determine the dosage amount and frequency of sessions.
Once your treatment plan is finalized, you have to sign an informed consent form to show you understand the potential risks and benefits of IV therapy. After this, a registered nurse or trained healthcare professional selects an appropriate vein in your arm, cleans the area with antiseptic, and inserts a thin plastic catheter into the vein.
When the IV line is in place, your treatment plan is administered slowly through an IV drip. Throughout the IV therapy session, you are monitored by healthcare personnel to observe your response, vital signs (e.g., blood pressure, heart rate), and any potential side effects or adverse reactions.
As soon as the IV therapy session is complete, the healthcare provider removes the IV catheter from your vein and covers the insertion site with a bandage. You are also assessed after the session for any immediate effects or changes in your condition.
Why Choose a Reputable IV Infusion Clinic?
Selecting a reputable IV therapy clinic is essential for several reasons, such as:
- Reputable clinics adhere to strict safety protocols and hygiene standards, reducing the risk of complications or infections associated with IV therapy.
- They employ qualified and experienced healthcare professionals who assess your health needs, develop appropriate treatment plans, and monitor your progress during IV therapy.
- They prioritize individualized care, tailoring treatment plans to your specific health goals and requirements.
- They use high-quality fluids, medications, and nutrients to ensure the effectiveness and safety of IV therapy.
- They provide comprehensive information and carry out informed consent procedures to make sure you understand the treatment plan and potential outcomes.
Safety Measures and Hygiene Standards
A reputable IV therapy clinic prioritizes safety and maintains strict hygiene standards to ensure the well-being of patients. For example:
- The clinic uses disposable equipment and regularly disinfects the treatment area to maintain a sterile environment and prevent contamination during IV therapy sessions.
- It employs qualified healthcare professionals trained in IV insertion, rigorously maintaining hygiene practices, and having the necessary expertise to respond to complications.
- It uses IV equipment designed for single use and properly disposes of those items after use. The clinic also thoroughly sterilizes the reusable equipment according to disinfection and sterilization guidelines.
- It follows strict infection control measures by properly handling and disposing of biohazardous waste materials to prevent the spread of infections.
- It is equipped with emergency response equipment and medications in case of adverse reactions or medical emergencies.
Benefits of IV Therapy
If you are wondering, “Is IV therapy worth it?”, review these IV therapy benefits to make an informed decision:
Increased Energy Levels
IV therapy can provide a rapid and noticeable increase in energy levels by replenishing essential minerals and vitamins in your body. It directly infuses certain vitamins and minerals, such as B-complex vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, and B9) and magnesium in your bloodstream.
B-complex vitamins and magnesium support a range of metabolic processes, including energy production. For example, thiamine (B1) and riboflavin (B2) facilitate the conversion of carbohydrates, protein, and fats into glucose. Niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), pyridoxine (B6), biotin (B7), and cobalamin (B9) breakdown glucose, fats, and proteins into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the primary energy source for cells.
Meanwhile, magnesium activates key enzymes in glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation to improve energy production. When delivered intravenously, these nutrients are readily available to cells to optimize energy production.
Improved Hydration
IV therapy can rehydrate the body quickly and efficiently in cases of dehydration and heat stroke. Administration of saline (saltwater) solutions into a vein helps replenish lost fluids and electrolytes. It also reduces the symptoms associated with dehydration, such as fatigue, dizziness, and dry skin.
Based on research, IV rehydration is more effective than oral in restoring water levels, particularly in cases of severe dehydration and heat illness. It is also an effective way to maintain the electrolyte and water levels in diarrhea patients.
Enhanced Nutrient Absorption
IV nutrition therapy allows for the direct and efficient absorption of essential vitamins and minerals, as these substances do not have to pass the digestive system. Individuals with impaired nutrient absorption due to gastrointestinal issues and specific medical conditions can highly benefit from IV nutrient therapy.
This approach ensures that nutrients are not diluted and broken down by the stomach acid. Instead, their full amount is readily available in the blood for usage. This therapy also benefits younger and older patients who have trouble swallowing pills.
Strong Immune Support
Certain IV therapy formulations include immune-boosting nutrients, such as vitamin C and zinc. These nutrients can support the immune system and help improve the prognosis of viral illnesses by reducing their severity.
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a potent antioxidant that shields cells from the harmful effects of free radicals. Free radicals can inflict damage upon immune cells and reduce the overall performance of the immune system, but vitamin C neutralizes free radicals to preserve the functionality of immune cells.
Moreover, vitamin C stimulates the production and activity of critical immune cells, including white blood cells (lymphocytes) and phagocytes. These blood cells are responsible for identifying and combating pathogens like bacteria and viruses.
On the other hand, zinc promotes the production and activation of T cells, which identify and destroy infected or cancerous cells. Zinc also plays a part in the formation of antibodies that recognize and neutralize specific pathogens.
How to Choose the Right IV Therapy Clinic?
Selecting a trustworthy IV infusion clinic is essential to ensure your safety and the effectiveness of the treatment, so make sure your chosen clinic covers this criteria:
Qualified Healthcare Providers
The clinic must employ licensed and qualified healthcare providers, such as registered nurses (RNs), nurse practitioners (NPs), or doctors. These professionals need to have an RN degree, a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certification, or an IV therapy certification.
Along with this, they must have training and expertise to administer IV therapy safely and effectively. You need to verify these credentials and licenses of practice to know you are selecting the right clinic.
Good Online Reputation
You need to research the clinic’s reputation by checking online reviews and testimonials. Reading about the experiences of previous clients can provide insights into the clinic’s reliability and quality of service. While checking reviews, pay attention to both positive and negative feedback to get a comprehensive picture.
Various Treatment Options
You must learn how many treatment options the clinic offers as a reputable one provides various IV therapy formulations according to your health goals and needs. For example, hydration therapy, nutrient replenishment, immune support, detoxification, and more.
Consultation and Assessment
A reliable clinic conducts a comprehensive consultation and health assessment before administering IV therapy. During this assessment, healthcare providers review your medical history, discuss your health goals, and assess your overall health. This step is crucial to determine the suitability of IV therapy for your individual needs.
Clean and Sterile Environment
You need to visit the clinic in person to assess its cleanliness and adherence to hygiene standards. The treatment area must be well-maintained, clean, and free of potential contaminants.
Emergency Preparedness
You must inquire about the clinic’s emergency protocols and equipment. The staff needs to have proper training to handle adverse reactions or medical emergencies. The clinic must have emergency medications and equipment like defibrillators.
High-Grade Medication
You have to inquire about the quality of fluids, medications, and nutrients used in IV therapy. A reputable clinic uses pharmaceutical-grade substances to offer maximum treatment safety and effectiveness.
Cost and Transparency
A reputable clinic upholds a transparent fee schedule and does not charge any hidden costs. Before selecting a clinic, understand the cost structure of IV therapy and ask about any additional fees. You can also request a detailed breakdown of costs before undergoing treatment to avoid any surprises.
Wrapping Up
Choosing the right IV therapy clinic is a crucial decision that impacts both your health and well-being. Taking IV therapy from a reliable clinic improves treatment efficiency and lowers your risk of side effects and infections. To make an informed decision, make sure your selected clinic has qualified healthcare providers, practicing licenses and certifications, a sterile environment, and emergency equipment.
Consider Lively Med to receive your IV therapy as we uphold these practicing criteria. We offer trained healthcare providers who assess your medical history to customize a treatment plan that suits your medical needs. Our clinics abide by sterilization guidelines to ensure you have a safe therapy session. Get in touch with our healthcare practitioners to start your assessment and IV treatment!
FAQs
Is IV therapy safe?
IV therapy is a safe procedure when administered by qualified healthcare providers in a sterile clinical setting. Like any medical procedure, it has some potential risks and side effects, such as pain, bruising, and bleeding at the needle insertion site. Therefore, discuss with your physician before undergoing treatment.
How long does an IV therapy session take?
An IV therapy session lasts 15 to 90 minutes, but on average, it can take around 30 minutes. The exact amount of time depends on your age, weight, IV type, and IV drip speed.
Does insurance cover IV therapy?
Health insurance companies generally do not cover IV therapy. However, they can approve coverage if your doctor prescribes the therapy as medically necessary to treat a condition or support the recovery process.
Can I receive IV therapy while pregnant or breastfeeding?
IV therapy is not only safe but beneficial for pregnant and breastfeeding women. It provides vitamins, minerals, and fluids that can support your health during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Is IV therapy suitable for children? Your child can receive IV drip therapy under careful prescription and monitoring if they are 12 years old or weigh at least 100lbs.
