Fishing for a baby vein?

[sassynerd]

I've been working at a pedi clinic and have seen the people there fish for the baby (6mos-18mos) veins. In school we learned not to do that on veins. Is this one of those real world vs. book world where this is widely acceptable? What is the standard practice? And if no fishing is allowed, what tips do you have for a new nurse in pedi?

(I've only watched, but I'm really nervous about my first time.)

[Double-Helix, BSN, RN]

If you'd like a personal transilluminator, I recommend the Wee Sight. It's effective, light, and small enough to carry around with you all day. In fact, if you get one, make sure you DO label it with your name and carry it with you all day, or it will disappear faster than cookies at the nurse's station.

[BellionRN]

Can I just say this info has been amazing! The ED I worked in welcomed adults and pediatric patients. Starting a line in a child or toddler still rattled me even after two years of being there.

Waiting for the flash, I had no idea! I got so used to seeing it immediately with my adult population, this never crossed my mind. And waiting a moment for the child to calm and take a breath after the poke before advancing the cathelon seems obvious but I guess when I'm "in the moment" I just want to get it done!

Thanks guys, love this site sometimes!

[oopsididitagain]

I'm a very difficult stick myself and can tell you from experience that people fishing for my vein HURTS SO MUCH. I'm always sitting there thinking JUST GO IN MY HANDS AND STICK ME TWICE @%@% DAMMIT AND I TOLD YOU TO USE A 23G WTEGHGHEIHIPWGH!!!!!