General practitioner holding intravenous drip infusion. Doctor handling IV fluid drip

Intravenous Therapy Nursing

What You Need to Know About Intravenous Therapy Nursing

Intravenous therapy nurses (or IV nurses, also called infusion nurses) administer fluids, medication, blood, or other solutions through injections into patients’ veins. These nurses are responsible for initiating an IV with minimal discomfort for the patient as well as maintaining the tubing and dressings. They also need to be able to support the physical and emotional needs of their patients.

Preparation Path

Attain a BSN

Pass the NCLEX and become an RN

Gain 1,600 hours of experience with IV therapy

Earn your Certified Registered Nurse Infusionist (CRNI) certification

Typical Tasks

  • Performing venous and arterial punctures to initiate an IV
  • Administering and monitoring various therapies delivered through the IV
  • Maintaining the intravascular site
  • Monitoring the site for infection and the patient for adverse reactions
  • Initiating emergency therapies as needed

Employment Settings

  • Hospitals
  • Home health agencies
  • Physicians’ offices
  • Long-term care centers
  • Outpatient facilities


Annual Salary Range

$76,390 – $95,390

Certification

RN, Certified Registered Nurse Infusionist (CRNI)

Education Requirements

BSN

Prepared to get started on your goal of becoming an intravenous therapy nurse?