What is a common application of peripheral IV lines?

Peripheral IV lines are commonly utilized for short-term IV therapy and hydration due to their ease of placement and accessibility. These lines are typically inserted into a vein in the arm or hand and are ideal for administering fluids and medications that do not require prolonged infusion durations. The peripheral IV line allows for quick access to the vascular system for fluid replacement, which is essential in situations where a patient may be dehydrated or needs immediate medication delivery.

While long-term medication administration and chemotherapy frequently require more durable access, such as central lines or ports, the peripheral IV line is most suitable for patients needing short-term treatment. Additionally, while blood sampling can be performed through peripheral IV lines, this is not their primary purpose, and there are more efficient methods for obtaining blood samples. As such, the use of peripheral IV lines for hydration and short-term therapy is the most relevant application in clinical practice.