Tips for starting an IV

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Specializes in Med/Surg, ICU, educator.

Hey all,

when it comes to starting an IV, I STINK:scrying: I have attempted probably 20 or more without even coming close! I can never find or feel any veins, and usually my patients are very frustrated by the time I have poked and prodded....my supervisor recommended that I work in our ambulatory unit a day or 2 to work on healthy/hydrated patients, but when I've tried to go, they say they don't really have the time to teach anyone, but once I get some experience they'd be glad to have me for a day or 2 (ummm, yeah.....). I work nights as it is, so trying to get training is not really easy for me. My co-workers say I should just give it time, but I am this is a skill that just baffles me!

Also, my skins is tough so I wonder if this affects my ability to feel anything, and what can I do other than lotions-I have tried every kind under the sun, and had little or no benefit.....

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Specializes in ICU, telemetry, LTAC.

Some nurses gave me tips during my last quarter, will try some of them when I get the chance.

-Once you get the bevel of the needle in the vein, immediately take off the tourniquet while holding it there.

-Watch the angle of entry for the needle: the flatter the better.

-Sometimes, on larger veins, don't take all day putting the needle in or threading the catheter; that just gives it time to blow.

Don't feel bad about your lack of success thus far. I have about a 30% success rate so far and I used to do phlebotomy. So I have no problem finding veins, or getting a needle in one, but I usually screw up trying to thread the catheter.

-Indy

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Specializes in Med/Surg, ICU, educator.

Unfortunately, I can't even find a vein to blow or screw up threading the cath into:idea: . My skills are that bad!

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First, relax. The more anxious you are the harder it will be. I learned to start IVs in the field. The best tip I received was to identify what site you wanted(AC preferabally) close your eyes then feel for the vein. We depend more on our sight and it overrides your sense of touch. Once feel it insert and get the tourniquet off. As the previous poster stated get the catheter in and loosen the tourniquet soon ASAP.

Too many veins get blown because of going too slow. You want to be cautious but still be able to move efficiently to keep the site.

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