IV Equipment and Stands: FSA Eligibility

What are IV equipment and stands?

IV equipment and stands are the medical equipment that is necessary to perform intravenous (IV) therapy on a patient in a hospital or home setting. IV therapy refers to the infusion of liquid substances into the veins, such as medications, blood transfusions, fluid replacement, chemotherapy and much more. IVs are often referred to by those in the medical field as "drips," because the vast majority of IV equipment make use of drip chambers that prevent air from entering the bloodstream and can allow nurses/doctors to adjust the flow rate to deliver the fluids in the most efficient way possible (National Center for Biotechnology Information).

IV equipment and stands refers to the medical equipment and supplies needed to perform intravenous therapy safely, and while they are most often found in hospitals and medical centers, some patients may require IV therapy at home to treat a wide variety of potential medical conditions. Some of the most common IV equipment and stands that are eligible for reimbursement include:

• IV Stands: These stands are used to elevate IV fluid bags and hoses directly above the recipient so the bags can drain effectively. These stands are designed to either remain stationary near a bed or chair, or can be fitted with rollers and made of sturdier materials so patients can receive IV therapy while still maintaining their personal mobility.
• Alcohol Prep Pads: Before the insertion of a needle or other form of injection, the skin must be prepped with alcohol prep pads to ensure that the affected area is sterile.
• IV cannula: In some cases, a patient will need IV cannulation, which refers to a tube placed inside the vein to provide venous access, which allows for the sampling of blood as well as the introduction of fluids, medications and other substances.
• Accessories: Any other items that can be used to improve the function of the IV therapy or improve the comfort of the user will also be considered eligible with a consumer-directed healthcare account. These include IV armboards, waste management systems, stopcocks, connectors, adapters and much more.