IV sites for Abd CT

[Louerrn]

Our radiology dept has started to refuse IV lines, regardless of gauge, for sites below the forearm. They also refuse to take an EJ saying only an IJ is acceptable. I'm curious what the policy is at other hospitals. This seems like bad medicine to me. I am seeing many pt's not being able to get CTs with contrast due to this policy. However, in my 3 yrs of ER nursing, I've NEVER seen an infiltrated line in the hand from CT though I'm sure it happens. I also think the alternative of placing a central line in the IJ just for a CT also seems like bad practice! I have had a CT tech tell me that if my IV was 1 inch higher, she would take it.

[Anna Flaxis, BSN, RN]

For CT, our radiology department will take a 22 as long as it flushes well.

For CTA, they request 20g. or larger above the wrist, with high pressure extension tubing.