I think I might have blown a vein?

[KG MSN RN CCRN CEN]

I was practicing IV skills with a classmate, and I attempted to insert an IV. Everything went pretty good in the beginning from what I could tell. I went into the vein at about a 15 degree angle, got blood return, advanced just a little more, then advanced my catheter. But then I noticed that the skin around the area started swelling. I feel like I did everything correctly, and then that happened and it kind of scared me and lowered my self esteem. Does this sound like I blew the vein, or does this just happen to people?

[Mainergal2000]

Happens all the time.

[SionainnRN]

We get our own supplies at my school so don't presume this guy stole them. We get a red lab bag which has plenty of materials for iv start kits. I have 4 or 5 in my bag alone. We get absolutely everything we need to practice skills in lab. From catheter kits to trach care, lots of needles for injections and iv starts.

If you're responding to me, I didn't presume. I was giving friendly advice as many students and nurses don't realize that there could be consequences for taking IV start kits home.

[ruralnurse84]

Students do not worry if you do not get the hang of IVs before you graduate. IVs are my nemesis but I am finally getting better at them and more comfortable. I graduated this past June, did LTC for two months and have been in the hospital since the end of August. It wasn't until, maybe two weeks ago that I was finally successful on my own and even then I forgot to pop the tourniquet. Do not fret, it just takes practice and trust me even experienced nurses can blow the veins, not get them, etc. The crew I work with are always telling me that and I love them for it. You guys will do great.