Iv Starts-help!!!

[Nrs. LaLa-Land]

Hi all,

I am a student and I graduate in 6 weeks. We are just now learning to do IV sticks...We only have one day in class to practice on each other before we start our preceptor experience. We originally had two days scheduled to practice but with the fires (San Diego) my school was closed for a week. Either way it hardly seems like enough time to feel confident.

Please give me any helpful ideas...tips....or advice about starting IVs...I am so nervous about trying to do one in clinical.

Any info would be greatly apprciated!!:imbar

[Rustyhammer]

First of all, calm down and don't panic.

Starting IV's is a skill like a plethora of other skills you will learn and master.

Have someone there beside you to watch and coach and your training will all come back to you.

-Russell

[USA987, MSN, RN, NP]

I just graduated in June and had the same fears as you do. Don't worry, you'll get it!!!! Let everyone know that you would like to try and start their IV's for them when you are in orientation. Take your time when trying to select a vein. Don't just jump at the first one you see/feel. For harder sticks I try wrapping their arms in warm blankets, having the pts. dangle their arms, etc....what ever works!!!!

Good luck!

[Brian, ASN, RN]

Here is another discussion on this topic you might find helpful:

https://allnurses.com/t31446.html

You might also want to do a quick search using the search feature. Good Luck!