What should you do if an IV is not flowing properly?

Assessing the IV site and tubing for kinks or obstructions is the appropriate course of action when an IV is not flowing properly. This step is essential because many issues with IV flow can be attributed to physical blockages or bends in the tubing that impede the flow of fluids.

When you assess the IV site and tubing, you are able to identify and address common problems such as kinks in the tubing, clogs from blood or medication precipitate, or even the possibility that the catheter has come out of the vein or is in the wrong position. By correcting these issues, you can restore normal flow without needing to change the IV site or remove the IV altogether, which are more drastic measures.

If the flow still cannot be restored after addressing any potential blockages, then further steps like changing the IV site would be considered as necessary, but that shouldn’t be the first action taken. This careful, systematic assessment is crucial for patient safety and effective IV therapy.