Sometimes, babies are too small or too sick to eat or take medications. In these cases, nutrient fluids and medications are often given through your baby’s veins and arteries using tubes that are inserted and remain in place as long as needed. These can also be used for drawing blood, without repeatedly sticking your baby with needles.
Even if your baby can be fed normally, an intravenous line may be needed to deliver antibiotics or other medication or to draw blood. This way, caregivers can avoid repeatedly sticking your baby with needles.
Your baby may need intravenous lines for just a short time or for many days. Once your baby is well enough to take milk feedings and is gaining weight, the lines can often be removed.
