Butterfly catheters

[Joni's Mom]

Hi,

Does anyone know if there is a step-by-step guide, or a video, on how to insert a butterfly intravenous catheter? I think the butterfly catheters lay on the skin flatter and better than the regular catheters, and seem to be easier to insert.

Thanks in advance

[Joni's Mom]

Hi RedCell,

I looked on the BD Saf-T-Intima website, and yes they do have one 14g. IV catheter. Catalog number 381709. Hope this helps.

[nyapa, RN]

Ah, I've never seen the Intima for IV. We use them for palliative care patients' administration of SC medication. I wouldn't like to use them for IV, they are very blunt...

[PeeCatcher]

I used these all the time when I floor nursed and they were soooo easy to use. I've also had people say they hurt less as well.

I think they're the best thing since sliced bread. :)

[saulgoodman]

hi there,

regarding butterfly catheters, can you use them to insert them subcutaneously and have it accept long term admninstration of s/c medications?

and how long can these buttfly catheters stay insitu for?

[iluvivt, BSN, RN]

Most clinicians do not realize that you must unlock the catheter (safety intimas) before starting venipucture. this makes the stylet pull back easier and needle entrapment into the safety chamber much smoother. I luv these catheters and have been using them since 1989 (old non-safety design of course). The best advice is to have an experienced individual show you how to use them. PS....they can not be used for power injection

[BinkieRN, BSN, RN]

The Saf-T-Intima is very very easy to use. We use them on the floor when a CT is ordered and the patients IV is not a #20 above the wrist. They prefer the AC for CT's. We are told they are only for short term use.

What does unlocking the catheter prior to insertion mean? I'm not at all familar with anything like that