New to er and iv question..

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I am new to the ER.. and I'm slowly evolving... I have an issue with starting IV's for some reason... I am fine to start one on a patient that has nice bulging or obvious veins.. but once I see someone whom I can only "feel" the vein.. I get nervous.. How do I overcome this? I feel like when I try.. maybe I don't go deep enough or what..? Any pointers on IV start?

Thanks,

Jamie

Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.
I haven't heard of that. How does it work?

They have a website: AccuVein | Vein Finder, Venipuncture, Vein Illumination | AccuVein AV300

It's pricey, though -- like $4500 or something.

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Specializes in ER, Forensics.
For rolling veins, get a big paperclip, place it to the left side against the vein, and stick from the right -- not a 90 degree angle, just enough to make the vein bump against the paperclip. Keeps it from rolling. .

What a great idea! That's a new one for me - I'm gonna try it on my next shift. Thanks!

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I always ask the pt what usually works for them. The ones who know they are a hard stick usually know where their veins are hiding. Also take your time when looking for one (unless it is emergent). I've stuck some strange places, I think my fav spot on bigger people is the boob.

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