Recently in our Emergency Department we had a patient going to the ICU who is a frequent flyer, substance abuser, with very difficult veins. Multiple attempts at a peripheral IV were attempted in the hands, forearms, antecubitals, feet, and legs, until we came across a very straight, juicy, superficial vein in the abdomen. The catheter was placed just like in any other site, blood return, easy flush, etc. A supervisor walked by and saw this and now I am getting detailed from my department because she says this is an "inappropriate site" for an IV. When I asked "Why?" She stated because she's never seen one there before. Now my colleagues say they have seen this before, and the ED Physician backed me as well, but I was wondering if anybody else has done this or seen it done? And if there is any literature supporting or opposing this as an appropriate IV site. Any information would be greatly appreciated.
And FYI, the site held up through 2L of Normal Saline and some much needed meds until the patient pulled it out.
