kelliec

We do not use many scalp IVs on our peds floor, often adequate access is obtained in one or two peripheral sticks. ACs are great on peds and if not walking yet the saph. vein is also a good option. We make a nice cover for the site, so it's not such a temptation to play with. The times that we do use scalp veins are emergent ones in which quick access is needed or if long term iv abx treatment is going to be needed. If the iv is just needed for hydration, our docs usually will order a feeding tube to be dropped if iv access cannot be obtained. This sounds horrible too, but the parents often request the feeding tube if offered the choice between it and a scalp iv. Personally, I like scalp IVs, the ones I have dealt with were good sites and lasted the entire hospital stay and I don't think that they caused anymore emotional or physical trauma to the patient than any other IV or invasive procedure.