You need an IV before surgery so the team can give you medicines and fluids during and after the operation. An IV is a thin plastic tube placed into a vein in your arm or hand. It is also used to give the anesthetic if you are having general anesthesia. In some cases, it can also be used for blood or other medicines.

The IV helps the anesthesiologist start care quickly and safely once you are in the operating room. It is part of the usual setup before surgery, along with monitors that check your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen level.

Verify the exact plan with your surgical or anesthesia team in case they want something different for you.