Pediatric IV's?

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Specializes in ortho/neuro/medsurg/peds.

I am new to pediatrics and I am horrified at the thought of doing IVs and other procedures on kids. I watched my preceptor start an IV on an 8 year old today, and she actually used a 20 gauge! I am scared to put 20s in adults let alone kids. Is that the usual size for peds? I would think I would use a 24g or so. Is this right?

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Specializes in Maternal - Child Health.

What was the IV going to be used for? Was there a need for rapid rehydration? Likelihood of blood transfusion?

I would usually reserve a 24g for an infant. 22g would probably be fine for most pediatric patients, unless there were some special concerns.

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Specializes in Pediatrics Only.

If the vein is good enough for a 20, then thats what I'd put in. (can draw blood back most times!)

Had a kid the other day with a 20 in. The thing drew back like a brand new central line, without using a tourniquet. I was actually able to get a 5cc waste off of it(in about 2 seconds)..was a beautiful thing..didnt have to stick..

I usually use 22s(under 10 years) and 24s though (only on babies)..

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Specializes in PICU.

Unless it's a trauma or surgery patient, in general I'd only put in a 22g on most kids, a 24 g on a baby.

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Specializes in Pediatric, OB/Gyn, Cardio, Nephro.

I usually use 22g on kids and 24g on babies myself.

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On our peds unit, usually kids are coming in sick sick so that means dehydrated and veins blow easier it seems. We usually use 24G - always on babies, even on toddlers and sometimes small children. I usually have blood return and easy flushes. We use scalp veins a LOT on those under 12 mos. Gives them access to their hands and fists to mouth. We do use tape like crazy and armboards to protect the site. Also we have the lowest IV infection rate hospital-wide (I believe because we tape the germs out LOL) I guess the gauge of the IV depends on the size of the kid. There are some BIG 8 yr olds out there.

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A 20 on an 8 year old is fine. I have, on occasion, used 20g's on dehydrated infants that I knew were going to be admitted for a while when they had the veins for it.

An FYI. When starting IV's on babies, if you are right handed, the left, medial saph. will be your best friend. Same for the right saph. if you are left handed.

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