What does the acronym "PIV" stand for?

The acronym "PIV" stands for "Peripheral Intravenous." This term is widely used in medical settings to describe a type of intravenous access that is established in the peripheral veins, typically in the arms or hands. Peripheral intravenous access is commonly used for administering medications, fluids, and drawing blood samples, making it an essential component of patient care.

The term emphasizes that the access point is located away from the central blood vessels, which is crucial for procedures that carry a lower risk of complications compared to central access lines. Understanding this terminology is vital for healthcare professionals, as it impacts how they approach patient treatment and vascular access strategies.