Intravenous injection
IV injection · intravenous injection · injection into a vein · IV push
Medicine is given with a syringe directly into a vein, usually in the bend of the elbow. It works quickly.
When medicine needs to act fast, or does not work as a pill or a shot into a muscle, as your doctor prescribes.
⏱ Duration: usually 2 to 5 minutes
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Food. It is usually better not to come hungry, unless your doctor said otherwise.
- Clothing. A sleeve that is easy to roll up above the elbow.
What to bring
- Your doctor's prescription
- The medicine, if you bought it yourself
How it goes
- You sit or lie down
- A band is tightened above your elbow
- The skin is wiped with antiseptic
- The nurse puts the needle into a vein
- The band is removed, and the medicine is given slowly
- The needle comes out, and a cotton pad is pressed on
What you'll feel
- A quick prick
- Sometimes warmth or a taste in the mouth from the medicine. Tell the nurse
Afterwards
- Press the cotton pad for 3 to 5 minutes
- You are usually asked to sit for 10 to 15 minutes after the injection
- A small bruise can happen and goes away on its own
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Swelling of the face or lips, trouble breathing, a rash, or sudden weakness: call emergency services
- The arm along the vein becomes red, swollen, and painful
Common questions
Why is the medicine given slowly?
Many medicines cause unpleasant feelings if given fast. Slowly is safer.
Can I leave right away?
You are usually asked to sit for 10 to 15 minutes. This shows whether you tolerate the medicine well.