The IV Nursing Team, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences (AIMS) observed IV Nurses Day for the 5^th consecutive year on January 30, 2015. As every year, it was an opportunity to pay special attention to the essential role played by the IV team in improving the quality of nursing care and also an occasion of celebrating success. This year’s theme was “Safe blood transfusion save lives.”

The function started with a silent prayer in respect to Martyr’s day followed by the lighting of Kuthuvilakku by distinguished guests.

The function was officially inaugurated by Dr. Vidhya B. Menon, Medical Administrator, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences. Addressing the gathering, she specially appreciated the skill of nurses in inserting and maintaining peripheral IV cannulation and also urged IV team members to expand their services in the area of PICC (Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter) line and central line insertions.

Bri. Sai Bala M., Nursing Director and the founder of IV team AIMS in her address expressed heartfelt gratitude to all IV team members for their contribution towards making the 3^rd INS-India, National Conference 2014  hosted by AIMS a grand success. She highlighted the milestones achieved by IV Team in 2014 and appreciated them on their dedication and commitment to quality nursing care as evidenced by the achievements over the years.

Mr. Bilesh K. Raj, Branch Manager, BD, Kerala division, also appreciated the IV team members for their valuable contribution in patient care. He also betoned the IV team AIMS as pioneers and that he showcases them as role model wherever he interacts. 

The inauguration was followed by an informative session on Safe blood transfusion by Dr. Pavan Kumar B., Assistant Professor, Medical Oncology. Through his session he clarified major doubts regarding cross matching and safe transfusion of blood.

Highlight of the event was case discussion in relation to IV cannulation by selected IV team members. The IV team members presented different incidents and best practices in relation to IV cannulation. Each presentation was followed by a discussion in which Bri. Sai Bala, ND; Mrs. Vishalakshi P, DNO; Mrs. Kanakamma Sasi, IV team Leader and many nurses from the audience actively participated.

The prizes for competitions on best peripheral IV cannulation documentation and poster competition were also distributed. The program had a colorful end with different cultural programs followed by national anthem.

SEE ALSO:
Department of Nursing Services at AIMS celebrates Intravenous Nurse Day