How many failed IV attempts for new grad?

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We are orienting a new grad on our surgical unit, and she has completed an IV certification course. My question is how many failed attempts at IV sticks should be the max? We have asked her to try once or twice & then get one of us, but she will try 3, sometimes 4 times b/f getting help. By the time she gets one of us, the patient is angry & has few options left for an IV. We have gone to the nurse manager & the DON, and were told "well she has to learn- just give her time". I think one failed attempt by a new grad is enough. As a result of multiple patient complaints, I have been asked by the nurse manager to be with her for all IV starts for 2 wks. I am noticing that her technique is horrible & have to wonder whether she ever really completed an IV cert. class. Suggestions?

Anyone know how expensive the IV dummies are? I am considering purchasing one. I am 1/2 so far. The first, I got one in on the first try. The second was a wiggly vein "half in" that my instructor totally bailed me out of. It was quite embarrassing. Bananas just don't seem to simulate the experience for me. (Not like oranges did for IMs)

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http://www.drmass.com/advanced-life-support-iv-arm---hand.html

you are looking at well over $200 after shipping but the nursing school might punt in a bit if you are lucky

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Specializes in NICU Level III.

Two per nurse. I will ONLY do it two because I'm a newbie, but I've seen our seasoned nurses go way over that.

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Specializes in HomeHealth / geriatrics.

well do I have a story for you guys this wasn't even a new grad who failed 3 times

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Specializes in HomeHealth / geriatrics.

OMG don't even get me started about IV sticks when I delivered my baby my L&D nurse who has 4 years experience post graduate. She stuck me 3 times and missed and screwed up everytime. I almost came off the table and strangled her , she didn't even apologize for her incompetence which she should have I have bruise all over both arms from her lack of skills. I finally said thats ENOUGH , get your charge nurse in here STAT and get the IV in NOW!!!!!:banghead:

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OMG don't even get me started about IV sticks when I delivered my baby my L&D nurse who has 4 years experience post graduate. She stuck me 3 times and missed and screwed up everytime. I almost came off the table and strangled her , she didn't even apologize for her incompetence which she should have I have bruise all over both arms from her lack of skills. I finally said thats ENOUGH , get your charge nurse in here STAT and get the IV in NOW!!!!!:banghead:

Ah. Incompetence is typically not the case. I've seen very seasoned ER nurses have issues with some.

I'm sure they took a 20 year old yelling to them to get a charge nurse in there, STAT seriously.

You'll see how easy it is when you graduate.

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