HI, I will be working for a Flu vaccination company in a few months, and this is my first time doing one of these? As an RN for 6yrs, I am nervous about this for some reason? Can you give me tips for this? I havent given many Ims, I have a few questions?

Do you pull back on needle, once inserted to check for vein/artery puncturing? Ive heard dont pull back on live vaccine, some say do pull back to check?

How much do you pull back?

Off topic: Picc lines-do you pull back on these when flushing?

I was taught in school to always pull back after inserting the needle to make sure you aren't in a vessel. But more recently I have been told that it is no longer necessary. I tend to still check for a flash of blood...better safe than sorry. Once you insert the needle, you only need to pull back on the plunger a little bit and it will be obvious if you are in a blood vessel with an immediate blood flash. I have never gotten a blood flash by the way.

As far as PICC line flushing, I usually pull back a little bit prior to flushing at least once during my shift to check for a blood return so I know if I can use it for labs. But, I don't think it's necessary during a routine flushing.

Thank you so much, this helps me and my nerves.:thankya:

I did get a blood flashback one time giving flu shots.