Basic Intravenous Therapy (IV) for ED/ER Technicians and Medical Assistants (MA) Course
This course has been specifically designed to provide initial training to Emergency Room/Department Technicians and Medical Assistants to perform intravenous therapy and blood draws under the direction of a physician or advanced medical provider.
The course covers the fundamental knowledge, skills, procedures, and mindset necessary to complete tasks accurately and safely. The program is taught by experienced medical professionals who possess extensive education and certification in their respective instructor-level fields, particularly in emergency medical services.
The instructional methods of the program include interactive lectures, presentations, videos, demonstrations, hands-on skill sessions, final skills proficiency testing, and a final written knowledge exam. The course is intended for individuals working in their respective fields who need to acquire these essential skills to advance or continue in their employment.
While the course covers comprehensive material, it is the responsibility of the student to continually practice these skills and techniques and review all course materials to ensure their proficiency in all program topics and skills.
The program includes but is not limited to:
- Anatomy and Physiology of the Circulatory System
- Overview of the circulatory system and its components
- Functions of the veins and arteries
- Blood vessels and their functions
- Types of blood cells and their functions
- Blood pressure and cardiac output
- Indications and Contraindications for IV Therapy
- Types of IV fluids and their indications
- Situations where IV therapy may be necessary or contraindicated
- Crystalloids, colloids, and blood products
- IV Fluids and Electrolytes
- Composition and indications for use of isotonic, hypotonic, and hypertonic solutions
- Functions of various electrolytes
- Calculation of fluid and electrolyte requirements
- Equipment and Supplies
- Types of IV catheters, tubing, and infusion sets
- Personal protective equipment
- IV fluids and electrolytes commonly used in clinical settings
- Safety considerations in handling and administering IV fluids
- Venipuncture Techniques and Blood Draws
- Selection and identification of veins for IV access and blood draws
- Preparation of site and insertion of IV catheter
- Techniques for performing blood draws and specimen collection
- Handling and labeling of blood samples
- Order of Draws (Blood draws)
- Complications and Adverse Reactions
- Signs and symptoms of infiltration and phlebitis
- Interventions for complications
- Adverse reactions and their management
- Documentation and Record Keeping
- Proper documentation of IV therapy and blood draws in the patient’s medical record
- Policies and procedures governing IV therapy and blood draws in the ED/ER and MA setting
- Infection control, safety protocols, and quality assurance
- Hands-on Skills Practice
- Practice in IV catheter insertion, IV fluid administration, and blood draws using manikins or simulators
- Demonstration of proper hand hygiene, PPE use, and aseptic technique
- Final Written Exam
- Assessment of knowledge and skills acquired during the course (hands-on skill proficiency testing)
- Multiple choice and practical skills assessment
Course Length: 10.0-Hours (Program is content specific not time specific, time may vary)
Course Prerequisites: None
Required Materials: Required Textbook, TBD.
Course Includes:
Instructor(s): G. Koehler, Fire-Paramedic, NV EMS Instructor
Course Cost: $250.00 per student.
Course Dates: TBD (April/May 2023-Projected)
Additional Information: This program is for those working or about to work in a position that required training in this skill set. This is a basic course and does not take the place of a full program in phlebotomy. Those programs can be found throughout the Las Vegas Valley at the College of Southern Nevada (CSN) as well as many private medical training providers.