Intravenous therapy helps in delivering the nutrients and hydration directly into the blood stream
for immediate absorption and use by the body. They are usually made up of:
• Saline solution – it is a sterile solution- a combination of water and salt, which provide
hydration and maintains the electrolyte balance in the body.
•Glucose solution – it is also a sterile solution - contains water and glucose(sugar),
which give energy to the body.
•Nutrients – IV drips also contain a variety of nutrient such as vitamins, minerals, and
amino acids, that are required for the body systems to work properly.
However, it is the fastest way to deliver nutrients throughout the body, as it bypasses the
digestive system and goes directly into the organs, resulting in 90 to 100% absorption rate, as
opposed to only 20 to 35% possible orally.