intravena

Intravena is a term that can be encountered in some contexts as a reference to intravenous administration, the delivery of fluids or medications directly into a vein. In standard English medical usage, the preferred term is intravenous or intravenously. The form intravena may appear in non-English texts or as a disease or device name in specific regions, but it is not widely adopted in English pharmacology literature.

Intravenous administration involves inserting a needle or cannula into a peripheral vein (such as in the arm) or placing a central venous catheter for access. Supplies include sterile needles or cannulas, IV tubing, bags or bottles of fluids or drugs, and a device such as an IV pump to regulate flow. Common administration methods are bolus or push injections, intermittent infusions, and continuous infusions. Intravenous therapy is used to deliver isotonic fluids, electrolytes, medications, blood products, and parenteral nutrition.

Indications include dehydration, shock, rapid administration of analgesics or antibiotics, anesthesia, and correction of electrolyte imbalances. Proper technique requires aseptic access, verification of medication compatibility, correct dosing, and appropriate monitoring of infusion rate and patient response. Risks include infection at the access site, phlebitis, infiltration or extravasation, air embolism, fluid overload, and adverse drug reactions. Long-term or frequent use necessitates careful catheter care, site assessment, and documentation.

Overall, intravenous administration is a central route in acute and ongoing medical care, with the term intravena less common in English but sometimes encountered in multilingual contexts.