Peripheral Intravenous (IV) cannulation should be avoided in the stroke affected upper limb.

Abstract

Peripheral Intravenous (IV) cannulation is a common clinical procedure conducted in most stroke patients during their hospital admission. IV access is crucial in the hyperacute and re-habilitation phases of stroke care for administering lifesaving treatments, conducting investi-gations, managing secondary risk factors and treating stroke related complications. Despite its importance, peripheral IV cannulation can cause several complications including infection, thrombosis, and pain. In stroke patients with motor and sensory impairments, cannulation poses unique challenges and can potentially hinder rehabilitation interventions and increase risks of injury and post stroke spasticity. This paper explores the lack of specific guidelines for IV cannulation in the stroke affected upper limb and emphasizes the necessity of careful con-sideration and alternative strategies to mitigate risks.