IV Fluid Catheter Infection in Dogs

The news is full of stories about humans contracting infections while in a hospital. The same thing can happen to a dog. A dog that requires an IV fluid catheter as part of its treatment for a health condition is at risk for contracting an infection because of the IV.

  1. IV Fluid Catheters

    • IV fluid catheters and needles are used to administer fluids and medications directly into a dog's veins. Different catheters and needles are available to veterinarians. Through them, fluids can be given to a dehydrated dog or stronger doses of antibiotics can be given to a dog with a severe infection. While IV fluid catheters are used to help restore a dog's health, they can also trigger infections, according to "The Complete Textbook of Veterinary Nursing."

    Causes

    • An IV fluid catheter can cause an infection in a dog when it helps to introduce bacteria into the dog's system. Because IVs are usually given to dogs with health problems, their immune systems might already be compromised, making them more susceptible to infection. Bacteria can enter a dog's system through its skin where the needle pierces it. It can also travel within the fluid catheter if it is not kept sterile.

    Symptoms

    • A dog with an infection from an IV fluid catheter will run a fever. The skin around the IV's needle will be red and swollen. The dog could cringe away from a touch there if the site is painful. If the infection is causing inflammation of the blood vessel, the blood vessel could feel hard to the touch. The dog might lose its appetite and be lethargic, according to "Textbook of Small Animal Surgery."

    Treatment

    • The first step to treating an infection caused by an IV fluid catheter is to remove the catheter and needle. If the dog still requires fluid therapy, a new IV can be inserted somewhere else. The dog can then be given antibiotics, which will clear the bacterial infection. Anti-inflammatory medication can help with fever and pain, according to "Manual of Clinical Procedures in Dogs, Cats, Rabbits, and Rodents."

    Considerations

    • Veterinarians can take measures to reduce the risk of a dog developing an IV fluid catheter-related infection. The site where the catheter will be inserted should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. The catheter, needle and associated equipment should all be sterilized before use. Sterile gauze should be placed over the needle insertion site. These measures can help prevent infection.