Vein transilluminators

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Specializes in Rehab, Ortho-Spine, Med-Surg, & Psych.

Hello everyone!

I have a difficult time starting up peripheral IVs. Has anyone used any of the vein transilluminators that are in the market (Veinlite, Venoscope, etc..)? What has been your experience? Do you recommend them? My unit is not willing to invest in one, so I'm considering buying one for my use, but would like to know what others think first.

Please advise. Thanks!

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Specializes in NICU, ER.

When have one in our er that is helpful when desperate, but i,don't want to use it day all the time and get reliant on it. It is a struggle because it does not show you the depth of the vein. It has its place, but isn't a magic fix. How long have you been a nurse may I ask?

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Personally I believe they are far too expensive for what they are.

If you want to expand your assessment tools with using light I would recommend looking at the Streamlight Stylus Pro ($20). I used one for years, just don't shine it into eyes, they are bright. The 90lumens/860candela was enough to penetrate a surprising amount of tissue to trans-illuminate vessels and the sharp focusing cone helped to provide a controllable illumination.

I personally found small and bright flashlights worked very well.

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Specializes in Rehab, Ortho-Spine, Med-Surg, & Psych.

Hello! I've been a nurse for 3 years now, but it has been until the last 5 months that I have worked in an unit where IVs are needed (I did Psych and Correctional before... no IVs were allowed). Thanks for your post.

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Specializes in Rehab, Ortho-Spine, Med-Surg, & Psych.

I know!!! They're expensive for what they are... that's why I'm asking for advice and I'm glad for your suggestions. I'm going to look into it. Thanks!!!

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Specializes in ICU, LTACH, Internal Medicine.

Vein transilluminators are not tools to teach you the skill; they are supplements. I use mine quite extensively but I work with "difficult" population to begin with, with most superficial veins spent after long hospital stays.

Just tell your colleagues that you need to master it and so every new IV is yours, starting now. Trust me, many will appreciate the opportunity to showel a bit of work off. If you have an experienced IV whisperer in your unit, follow her and ask questions. If you have IV team, buy them some coffee and become a shadow for a day or two.

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