Hematoma ???

Are you "blowing" the vein? You shouldn't have a lump or anything if the cathalon is in the vein.

It was during a 'practice' session. I got blood and then removed the angio. After taking it out it blew up like a 2 peas.

You obviously weren't in the vein or you had perforated the vein during your IV start.

you either A: didnt completely thread the catheter in the vein (insert it a litte more after the flash) or B:went through both sides of the vein.

Some older people that are on anticoagulants require less pressure by either not using a turnequett (sp) or using a BP cuff instead becaue their veins blow the minute you touch them with a needle.

Swtooth

Also with the elderly, don't withdraw the needle too quickly.

Sometimes it just takes a half a second more to get a blood return.

Sounds like you went through the vein instead of into it. It happens often and don't let it scare you off. Just keep practicing!