IV Team Clinical Observation

[Fazed]

Hello all, on my next clinical rotation I am to observe the IV team RN for the day! Anyone have tips on what to look for, what to ask, etc? I'd like to make the best use of my time with him or her?

Thanks!

(Not) Fazed in the least!

[TexasPediRN]

Hello all, on my next clinical rotation I am to observe the IV team RN for the day! Anyone have tips on what to look for, what to ask, etc? I'd like to make the best use of my time with him or her?

Thanks!

(Not) Fazed in the least!

Watch her technique, and ask questions. Now be careful asking questions around the patient- wait until you are in the hallway. Then you can ask things like "why did you choose that vein when this other one was easily visible and accessible?"

Try and have her explain to you tips on starting IV's, picking your vein, and what she does when she has a patient who is a hard stick. Those would be good questions to ask that would help you in your nursing career.

Watch when she starts the IV's, and try and talk through the technique in your head as the RN does it so that you get an understanding of the steps involved in starting an IV.

Good luck! This will hopefully prove to be an invaluable experience for you!

-Meghan

[Fazed]

Meghan,

Thanks for the advice. Exactly what I needed! I've printed it and will take with me to clinical.