Clinical Governance & Best Practice

This directory lists IV therapy providers across the United Kingdom that meet high standards of transparency, clinical oversight, and safe practice. Listings are not endorsements; they are included to help readers identify clinics that operate with a clear focus on professionalism and patient safety.

What Is Clinical Governance in IV Therapy?

Clinical governance is the system through which organisations maintain and improve quality of care.

In the context of IV therapy, it ensures:

  • Safe delivery of IV infusions
  • Evidence-informed ingredient selection
  • Transparent protocols
  • Competent, trained staff
  • Effective incident management
  • Patient-centred decision making
  • Continuous quality improvement

Robust governance protects patients, reduces risk, and upholds professional standards.

Best Practice Protocols

Every IV therapy provider should have clear, written protocols covering each stage of the patient journey.

Key elements include:

  • Initial consultation and pre-treatment screening
  • Reviewing medical history and contraindications
  • Ingredient selection based on evidence and suitability
  • Prescriber involvement where required
  • Informed consent prior to treatment
  • Step-by-step infusion procedure
  • Post-infusion monitoring and documentation

Protocols should be updated regularly to reflect new research, regulatory developments, and clinical learning.

Infection Prevention & Control

IV therapy introduces a direct pathway into the bloodstream, making infection prevention essential.

Core infection control standards:

  • Hand hygiene before and after patient contact
  • Aseptic non-touch technique (ANTT)
  • Alcohol-based skin preparation
  • Single-use sterile cannulas and giving sets
  • Proper cleaning of treatment areas
  • Safe disposal of sharps and clinical waste
  • Routine audits of hygiene practices

Breaks in infection control can lead to phlebitis, local infection, or – in rare cases – systemic complications.

Clinical Screening

Screening ensures IV therapy is safe and appropriate for each patient.

Screening should include:

  • Medical history
  • Current medications
  • Allergies
  • Pregnancy status
  • Cardiovascular and renal health
  • Previous reactions to infusions
  • Hydration status
  • Recent illnesses or surgery

Screening should be updated at every appointment, not only at first consultation.

Documentation Standards

Accurate documentation is a cornerstone of safe, regulated practice.

Documentation should record:

  • Patient details
  • Screening responses
  • Consent
  • Ingredients and dosages
  • Batch numbers and expiry dates
  • Cannulation details
  • Infusion duration
  • Observations during treatment
  • Adverse reactions (if any)
  • Post-treatment advice

Proper records support continuity of care and accountability.

Staff Competency & Training

IV therapy must be delivered by clinicians and trained and experienced individuals with appropriate training and regulatory registration.

Competencies include:

  • Venous access skills
  • Understanding pharmacology of included ingredients
  • Recognising early signs of complications
  • Managing infusion rates and fluid balance
  • Maintaining aseptic technique
  • Handling emergencies calmly and effectively

Ongoing training helps maintain standards and update knowledge.

Emergency Preparedness

Even with excellent practice, complications can occur. Clinics must be prepared to respond rapidly and safely.

Emergency readiness includes:

  • Anaphylaxis kits
  • Oxygen supply (if required by applicable standards)
  • Trained staff able to use emergency equipment
  • Clear escalation pathways
  • Access to a prescriber or clinical lead
  • Documented emergency procedures
  • Incident reporting systems

Common emergency concerns include:

  • Anaphylactic reactions
  • Vasovagal episodes
  • Extravasation
  • Severe nausea or hypotension

Preparedness is a key marker of responsible IV therapy provision.

Incident Reporting & Continuous Improvement

Effective clinical governance involves learning from events and improving practice.

Clinics should:

  • Record incidents and near-misses
  • Review cases to identify root causes
  • Update protocols based on findings
  • Provide staff training where necessary
  • Track quality metrics over time

Continuous improvement ensures high standards are sustained.

Transparency & Patient Rights

Patients should always receive:

  • Clear explanation of ingredients
  • Balanced, evidence-based information
  • Transparent pricing
  • Opportunity to ask questions
  • Guidance on risks and alternatives

Respect, clarity, and honest communication are core aspects of best practice.