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Discussion

Need IV experience

I am looking to switch specialties outside of the hospital with my only experience being about three years on a med-surg floor. I have gained my experience at a hospital that only allows the IV team to insert IVs and I have not started an IV since nursing school. I know that not having this skill might set me back when compared to other job candidates. Most of the job postings I see for my area say "must be proficient in starting IVs". Any suggestions on how I can work on my skills when practicing at work isn't an option? Any courses that could help? I know practice makes perfect with IV starts but at least gaining back the basics would be great. Thanks guys!

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    Many nurses with great experience lack strong IV placement skills. My recommendation would be to sell your strong points in an interview, and ask your new manager/educator if you can spend a few hours in the ER during orientation practicing IV starts since they're such a common occurrence. Otherwise, let the nurses on your new unit know that you are eager to learn and would love to jump in if they have an IV that needs placing. Most will be happy to help!

    Edited: Oops, just saw that you're looking at jobs outside of the hospital setting. That probably means my ER advice is a no go!

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    What jobs are you looking at? I'm thinking out patient surgery or GI, something where procedures are done and an IV needed.

    This is tough, can you plead with a nurse on the IV team to let you help, if she can watch you start IV's when they are needed on your unit? Even getting a few sticks in can be a way to get started.

    I wasn't the greatest at IV's when I started in an outpatient/GI surgery clinic. I managed, there were other nurses working there who were willing to help. Eventually I got proficient at IV's.

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