Question about IV therapy....

It makes sense that if the cath below the infiltration is in the same vein, it will con't to infiltrate the proximal site.

That`s what I was taught,too...that`s why you`re supposed to start low, and work up...What was wrong with other arm?? I would of just started a new iv there...would of left SL in, just"in case"

I agree. I've been in the same situation and couldn't get a good IV started below the site. I'd move on to the other arm. That one is gone for a few days.

I always thought that if an IV site goes bad (and especially infiltrates) that any vein distal to the site couldn't be used.

I was taught this too.

Linda

Anybody have any links that I can print stuff off so I can take it to work? Thanks. I knew I wasn't crazy....:chuckle

was the bad IV in the same vein as the heplock?? if so then I wouldnt use it, but if one was medial and one was more lateral on the arm, then I would use it.

we were also taught to never use an IV distal to one that has infiltrated, but then there is the real world.....

I stuck a man near the AC once, but it blew, had a dialysis shint in the other arm so I couldn't use it. So went below where I had stuck before, near the wrist. Turned the fluids on and I swear they came out the original site. Have only seen that once, was freaky.

OH! LilgirlRN, I saw that happen just 2 weeks ago, it freaks you out doesnt it??? LOL

Originally posted by cactus wren

That`s what I was taught,too...that`s why you`re supposed to start low, and work up...What was wrong with other arm?? I would of just started a new iv there...would of left SL in, just"in case"

The pt is a hard stick and the RN taking care of her didn't want to have to restick her if it really wasn't necessary. Eventually, one of the nurses was able to get an IV site in the opposite arm but it went bad after about an hour. My vote is for a midline or a PICC. She is just one day post-op after major bowel surgery so she will be there for a few days.

Thanks for all the postings. I know now there are others who are in agreement with me.

I think I found a good site for you to print off stuff. It's a Baxter site...and it also can be used for CEUs. The courses are free and you can print off the certificate immediately.

http://www.baxter.com/doctors/iv_therapies/education/index.html

Just click where it says "click here"...and then scroll down until you see..Essentials of IV Therapy

An Online Home Study Continuing Education

Course for Nursing and Pharmacy Professionals

Edited to say: Totally Free! Be ready to print off your certificate, because if you close the page before you print it off..you have to take the test all over again to get back to the certificate page. The only thing you have to type in, is your name as to how you wish it to be on the certificate. At least that is how I remember it. Each course counts for about 1.5 CEUs...I think. For those of you in Texas...I used this to renew my Texas license with no problems.

Thanks. I will look that site up later....