Infusion sets are designed to deliver medicine to a patient quickly, often through the bloodstream. These sets need to be secured in place properly to be as effective as possible. With the right procedure and taping, an infusion set can deliver vital medication quickly and effectively.
Using the right tape is crucial in keeping an infusion set in place. When the set is taped properly, medicine can be given to a patient without issue. If the infusion set is taped improperly, however, the patient could experience undue discomfort and potentially lose out on the medication they need.
In this guide, we’ll look at why taping an infusion set properly is important for the patient, how to attach an infusion properly, and how Hy-Tape can be a great choice of tape for the job.
Why Taping An Infusion Set Properly Is Important
During infusion therapy, medicine is sent through a needle or catheter to provide the patient with medicine that can’t be delivered orally. Taping an infusion set in place is important for ensuring the proper delivery of the medicine. When the infusion set isn’t taped properly, it could lead to problems for the patient, including:
- Lack of medicine delivery into the body
- Discomfort at the site of the infusion
- Bacterial infection at the infusion site
- Damage to the catheter and the need to re-cath
With the right tape and the right procedure, an infusion set can hold tightly in place without irritating the patient. It can also provide medication without issue so the patient can restore their health at a faster pace.
Steps For Taping an Infusion Set
Proper taping of an infusion set can make a big difference for a patient. Whether a patient or caregiver, it’s important to know how to properly tape a set in place for maximum effectiveness. Here are a few steps to help ensure the infusion set stays in place and works correctly:
- If necessary, shave the skin at the infusion point to ensure a close and easy taping of the infusion set in place.
- Clean the skin with soft, unscented soap. Avoid skin-softening soap as it can leave behind residue that makes it harder to apply tape.
- Apply an antiperspirant to the skin to help prevent perspiration at the infusion point.
- Swab the skin with a skin preparation liquid. This will remove any remaining bacteria and help prepare the skin for taping.
- Place a skin dressing on the skin at the infusion site and insert the infusion. You can also add another dressing on top of the infusion for extra support.
- Apply medical tape, such as Hy-Tape, to the infusion set. Place small pieces of the tape around the edges of the infusion to help support it and keep it from moving.
- Apply additional tape as needed. Often, caregivers will tape a safety loop onto the patient’s body so if the tube gets caught, it has a bit of space to tug rather than being pulled out.
- Replace the tape every day or two to ensure fresh adhesion to the skin and the infusion set.
Be sure to carefully tape infusion sets to help ensure fast and effective delivery of medicine. With proper taping, an infusion set can work well and prevent skin irritation for the patient.
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Hy-Tape Can Make Infusion Set Taping Easier
As a strong-holding tape, Hy-Tape is a great choice for those who need to tape an infusion set. The material features a strong adhesive that holds tight and stays waterproof, avoiding leakage or infiltration of bacteria. At the same time, Hy-Tape peels away easily and moves gently with the patient to help avoid skin irritation.
Hy-Tape also features zinc oxide, a common ingredient in sunscreens. This helps to protect the skin when the tape is applied.
With proper usage, Hy-Tape can be a great choice for taping an infusion set and keeping it in place without the worry of skin irritation. Take a look at our ordering page to learn more about our line of Hy-Tape products.