Forcing a Saline Flush

Nurses General Nursing

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I'm curious if anyone can shed some light on my recent ER visit three days ago...I realize this forum isn't used for medical concerns of patients but as a nursing student I thought who better to ask than experienced nurses. I went to the ER because I suspected a PE (I've had one last year) and I was immediately seen by the nurse and physician. I had an EKG right away and the nurse started what I thought was an IV in my hand but I believe it was only the catheter because she didn't connect it to anything. She drew my labs from this site and didn't flush the catheter when she finished. Next, I went in for a CT chest w/contrast and the CT tech said verbatim, "This might hurt a little," as she forcefully flushed the catheter in my hand that had collected blood in it after having my labs drawn. I instantly pulled my hand away and winced in pain but she did apologize for having to "force" it. When it came time to push the 100 cc of contrast through my vein I experienced excruciating pain in my vein from my hand up to my elbow. I was in tears and my arm and hand are still very tender 3 days later. I have a very high pain tolerance so I was surprised that a simple diagnostic test such as a CT would cause that much pain. Afterwards, my arm showed signs of blanching and some edema. Should I be concerned or was this just a fluke incident?

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

You need to discuss your concerns with your private physician. There is no way we can advise you on an anonymous internet message board. You need to be evaluated by your PCP

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As a general rule, to remember in your own practice in the future, large bore IV's in a large vein (preferably the ac) is one of the better areas if one is having a radiological test using contrast.

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Specializes in ED, Pedi Vasc access, Paramedic serving 6 towns.

Contrast for chest CT is done VERY FAST and under VERY high pressure!

Annie

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Specializes in Education, FP, LNC, Forensics, ED, OB.

As stated, we cannot provide the medical advice you require. Please contact your healthcare provider. We wish you well and hope all resolves.

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