What does the abbreviation 'IV' stand for?

The abbreviation 'IV' stands for 'Intravenous,' which refers to the administration of fluids, medications, or nutrients directly into a vein. This method is commonly used in medical settings for rapid delivery of substances into the bloodstream, allowing for quick absorption and efficacy.

Intravenous therapy is crucial in various situations, such as providing hydration, administering antibiotics, or delivering anesthesia during surgical procedures. The term highlights the involvement of veins, which are the blood vessels that carry blood back to the heart, making IV therapy a critical aspect of patient care.

The other terms mentioned, such as intravascular, intraosseous, and intramural, refer to different medical contexts. Intravascular pertains to within the blood vessels but is a broader term not specifically indicating the vein. Intraosseous refers to the administration of medications directly into the bone marrow and is typically used in emergency situations when IV access is difficult. Intramural relates to something situated within the wall of a hollow organ. Each of these terms serves specific functions in medical practice but does not define the IV abbreviation as accurately as 'intravenous' does.