I am seeking your advice on how to start IVs on difficult sticks, preferably older Adults with rolling veins. I work in a setting where I start IVs, access ports, and draw blood. Our patient population is cancer patients and those in the process of being diagnosed, as well as genetic testing for families of cancer patients. I've only been with the company several weeks but have been a nurse 3 years. I did the occasional IV start prior to working for this company but not all day every day! I'm doing pretty well, usually 5/7 or 6/8, so missing approximately two a day. Every single time these patients have been older adults over 80 with fragile, rolling veins. My preceptor and crew is awesome and very helpful but I'd like to get some tips and tricks from those nurses outside of work.
We start IVs for scans and chemotherapy infusions. For scans, we can use 22's and 24's that are power injectable. Occasionally we have to use a 20 in the AC if they are getting an angio. The equipment I mostly use is the BD Diffusics 22 and 24, and then the BD Insyte in 20, 22, and 24.
Using ultrasound to insert is not an option - I'll just grab someone, usually my preceptor, who gets them every time. She's the vein whisperer, and I listen to what she has to say, but she says it will just come with time. I already see myself getting better, but I was just wondering if any experienced nurses out there have any thoughts.
