Infusion Therapy 101

This course is designed to prepare the Registered and Licensed Practical Nurse (RN/LPN) to initiate and maintain peripheral intravenous infusions. Through a combination of theory instruction and lab practice, students will develop their skills in IV insertion and maintenance, learn how to minimize patient discomfort and complications and increase insertion success rates. Students will gain knowledge in locating sites, selecting equipment, insertion, adjusting flow rates, identifying complications, and selecting interventions for the adult patient receiving IV therapy. After successful completion of this course, students are expected to develop proficiency in these skills with clinical mentorship and experience in their health care facility. When aspects of care or skill are beyond the nurse’s level of competence, it is the nurse’s responsibility to seek education and/or supports needed for that care setting (British Columbia College of Nurses & Midwives).

A certificate will be issued once the participant completes all three sessions (virtual theory course, onsite lab practice, and job shadow day).

No supplies are needed to be purchased. All supplies will be provided by CareBridge Training Academy. 

Total Hours: 9 hours

• 2 hours of theory — Delivered virtually through our learning portal.

• 3 hours in the lab — Practice onsite at the infusion clinic. CareBridge Training Academy will arrange dates and times.

• 4 hours of Job shadowing — CareBridge Training Academy will arrange a practicum for a convenient date & time between student and the infusion clinic (Port Moody or Vancouver location).

This course is intended to be continuing professional development  for individuals with Current BC RN/RPN/LPN Licensure

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Describe the role of the nurse in IV therapy, including scope of practice for IV therapy

• Identify indications for IV therapy

• Describe the anatomy and physiology of the vascular system

• Apply principles of infection control

• Identify types of intravenous solutions

• Explain the advantages and disadvantages of IV therapy

• Identify approaches to take to prevent, detect and minimize complications

• Prepare an infusion according to a healthcare professional’s orders and employer policies and procedures

• Prepare equipment and select appropriate insertion site for prescribed therapy

• Practice venipuncture (under supervision) on a training arm

• Explain calculations related to IV therapy

• Document appropriate information in the patient’s progress notes