In medical settings, KVO is a commonly used abbreviation that refers to “Keep Vein Open.” This term signifies a practice designed to maintain the functionality of an intravenous (IV) access site. It ensures that a patient’s vein, where an IV catheter has been placed, remains ready for immediate use.
Understanding “Keep Vein Open”
This practice involves maintaining the patency, or openness, of a vein that has an IV catheter inserted into it. Medical professionals achieve this by administering a very slow, continuous drip of intravenous fluid, typically a saline solution. The minimal flow rate, often between 5 to 20 milliliters per hour, is just enough to prevent the IV line from clotting. This method ensures the catheter remains clear and functional, contrasting with a full infusion where larger volumes of fluid are delivered.
The Purpose of KVO
Maintaining KVO is medically important because its primary purpose is to prevent the IV catheter from becoming blocked or occluded. Without a slow, continuous flow, blood within the catheter can clot, rendering the access unusable. KVO ensures immediate and reliable venous access, which is crucial for administering necessary medications, fluids, or for drawing blood samples without delay. By preventing blockages, KVO also minimizes patient discomfort and potential complications that can arise from repeated IV insertions. The constant, low-rate flow helps prevent the adhesion of blood components and the formation of blood clots or bacterial biofilms within the catheter, which are common causes of occlusion.
When KVO is Applied in Medical Practice
KVO is frequently applied in various clinical scenarios to ensure continuous venous access. It is often used for patients awaiting new medication orders or between intermittent doses of medication.
KVO is also implemented for patients who may require rapid fluid resuscitation or emergency medications, allowing for swift delivery in critical situations.
Additionally, patients who are designated NPO (nothing by mouth) but still require IV access for potential treatments or hydration may have a KVO infusion running. This maintains their access without delivering a significant volume of fluid.
KVO is a standard protocol to keep IV access viable even when no active infusion is running. It also finds application in medical imaging procedures that necessitate multiple, intermittent injections of contrast media, preserving the integrity of the IV line between injections.
While often used for peripheral IV catheters, KVO can also be applied to central venous catheters to prevent occlusions.