Using BP cuff to access certain veins?

[mcknis]

The other day I was at work and saw one of our LPNs using a BP cuff when inserting a peripheral IV catheter. I have seen this done before but can someone explain the rationale for this practice to me. Do certain veins "pop out" with this technique, or am I totally off? Also, is there a pro/con to use this over a latex/nitrile tourniquette.

Just a nursing student trying to gain knowledge...

mcknis

[cardiacRN2006, ADN, RN]

It works quite well. Our ER monitors actually have a "Venipuncture" button, which holds the cuff at a steady 60mm of pressure. Just be careful you don't pump a manual cuff too high. Check with your hospital policies also.

Ours too. The benefit to me is that the pt already is connected to the monitor, and likely already has the bp cuff on.

To be honest, many years ago (as a med tech) we would occasionally use BP cuffs. For me, as my skills in venipuncture incresed my use of the cuff decreased. I am not saying that people who use a cuff can't stick .

Using the bp cuff has absolutely nothing to do with phlebotomy skills.

[mcmike55]

I've used a BP cuff instead, occasionally, in addition to a regular tourniquet.

I had my shift supervisor, who I totally respect, tell me years ago that the wider cuff does a better job of compressing an arm than a "rubber band". That's why I always (if possible) put the tourniquet on the humerus, rather than the forearm. In my humble opinion, you can't compress the arm as well because of the ulna and radius, versus one single bone in the upper arm.

I've used a cuff on people especially larger pts', that others have alread had trouble with.

I sometime use the multiple tourniquet trick too. Starting with the cuff or touniquet high on the arm, then a second lower down, often above the AC, release the top, moving it below the AC, then "get 'er done".

I have not used a BP cuff either in some time, partially because I guess I have not needed it, or, with the increased usage of electronic cuffs, the old fashioned BP cuffs are not as easily available!!

Mike

[CyndieRN2007]

In nursing school we were taught to use a bp cuff on elderly patients to minimize bruising and blowing of fragile veins.

[deleern]

What CRNAwant2be said...I use it on just one pt when we draw her PT/INR to reduce bruising.