Urgent Care vs. Emergency Care – Going for IV Fluids
Dehydration occurs when the body loses too much fluid, not drinking enough water or fluids, or both. The human body needs a certain amount of water to operate normally. Through sweating and urinating, we lose water from the body and have to replace it through drinking water and other beverages continuously. Frequent diarrhea, vomiting, and urination are also ways that our bodies lose vital fluids. In these cases, it is crucial to get rehydrated at the nearest medical facility through IV fluids.
What are IV Fluids?
Intravenous fluids consist of large volumes of water mixed with essential vitamins and electrolytes to restore your body’s vitality within a short period. These fluids are administered through a thin tube called an IV that is inserted in one of the veins. The amount of liquid flowing from a bag is the controlled as it enters the bloodstream through intravenous fluid regulation.
Where Can I Go for IV Fluids?
Both Urgent Care Centers and Emergency Care centers offer IV fluids for dehydrated patients. The contents of the fluids may vary depending on the patient’s condition. As expected, after a quick diagnosis, a physician can determine if you are in need of rehydration, as a treatment measure, or before other treatments are administered.
To avoid long queues, you can visit an urgent care center for quick IV fluid hydration. However, since Urgent Care facilities only operate during specific times of the day, and days of the week, you may have to visit an Emergency Room for rehydration. Emergency Rooms are highly beneficial at night and during weekends since most Urgent Care Centers are usually closed down.
What is the Purpose of IV Fluids?
There are several reasons for receiving IV fluids. Some of the treatments that rely on intravenous administration are:
- Rehydration after dehydration due to excessive activity or an illness
- Treatment of infections using antibiotics
- Cancer treatment with chemotherapy medication
- Pain management through certain medicines
- Hangovers
- Food Poisoning
The fluids contain water, necessary electrolytes, sugar and medication to deliver all drugs to the blood directly. The amount and rate at which IV fluids are administered depend on your medical condition, age, and body size. Care is taken to ensure that the fluids are delivered at the correct rate and amounts, to prevent further complications.
What Should I Expect During the Procedure?
First, the doctor will determine the type and the rate at which the IV fluid will be administered. A nurse will then disinfect the area where the injection goes. An IV catheter is then inserted into a vein, and the fluids are delivered from a higher position allowing gravity to take its course.
What are the Types of Intravenous Fluid Regulation?
There are two ways to regulate the amount of fluid flow. It can be done either manually or using an electric pump. In both methods, the nurse checks the IV regularly to make sure that you are receiving the correct amount of fluid at the correct rate.
- Manual Regulation
The rate of flow is controlled by a clamp that increases or decreases the pressure on the tube. The nurse counts the number of drops per minute to ensure that the speed is correct, and make any necessary adjustments.
- Electric Pump
The electric pump is set to deliver the desired amount of fluid at the correct rate.
What are some of the Symptoms of Dehydration?
Dehydration causes the following symptoms in patients.
- Dry Mouth
- Lethargy
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Headaches
Severe dehydration manifests itself in the following ways:
- Sunken Eyes
- Low Blood Pressure
- Reduced Perspiration
- Dry and Shriveled skin
- Fever
- Increased Heart Rate
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, visit the closest ER as soon as possible.
Are There Any Complications That Arise During IV Fluid Administration?
Some of the complications are infection at the injection site, dislodged catheter or the collapse of a vein. Luckily, each of these complications is easily corrected and treated.
To avoid dislodging your catheter, avoid rapid movements, or pulling the tube too much. Collapsed veins occur when the catheter stays in the same vein for too long. Sometimes too much fluid may be administered leading to headaches, high blood pressure, anxiety and breathing complications.
However, the administration of intravenous fluid is standard and safe. The procedure is carried out by qualified professional to ensure no complications arise.
Are You in Need of IV Fluids?
Frontline ER provides IV fluids for patients who are dehydrated, or in need of intravenous treatments. With 24/7 services and qualified staff, you are assured of receiving quality treatment at any time of the day. Our physicians ensure that they carry out a detailed diagnosis to determine the kind of fluid you need. Our nurses will ensure that the fluid is administered at the right rate, and carry out checks regularly to revitalize your body.
In case you are in need of rehydration to battling an illness, excessive activity or a hangover, Frontline ER is the place to be. Visit any of our centers today for quality treatment of both adults and children. For more information, visit our website.
