Abstract
Older adults are a special patient population who require attention to a variety of issues and considerations related to infusion therapy. The need to alter practice approaches includes vascular access techniques and the administration of intravenous medications, fluids, and blood components. In addition, older adults will manifest very different signs and symptoms related to development of an infection in the body. This article reviews the normal physical changes that occur in their major body systems and discusses recommendations to accomplish successful venous access and correct administration of infusates.