Abstract
Purpose
This pilot study aimed to provide basic data on intravenous infusion nursing by analyzing the infusion rate in the cephalic and median cubital veins depending on the height of the infusion bag and inner diameter of the peripheral venous catheter (PVC).
Methods
While infusing 0.9% normal saline at 22 °C (room temperature) into elbow cephalic and median cubital veins, the infusion rate may be controlled by adjusting the fluid height and PVC diameter. To assess the validity of the laminar flow assumption, the study estimated the Reynolds number (Re) using the velocity obtained by applying Bernoulli’s equation considering the friction coefficient.
Results
At a constant fluid height, the infusion rate increased with increasing PVC diameter. At a constant PVC diameter, the infusion rate increased with increasing fluid height. In a comparison between the cephalic and median cubital veins at constant fluid height and PVC diameter, the solution was infused at a higher rate into the cephalic vein, which was under lower venous pressure.
Conclusion
The analysis of the infusion rate according to fluid height and PVC diameter provided basic data on intravenous infusion nursing. The results are expected to provide evidence for the standardization of intravenous infusion nursing.
Data Sharing Statement
The datasets used and/or analysed during the current study available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.
Author Contributions
All authors made a significant contribution to the work reported, whether that is in the conception, study design, execution, acquisition of data, analysis and interpretation, or in all these areas; took part in drafting, revising or critically reviewing the article; gave final approval of the version to be published; have agreed on the journal to which the article has been submitted; and agree to be accountable for all aspects of the work.
Disclosure
The authors report no conflicts of interest in this work.