Veins

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I'm not a nurse or anything. I am thinking of maybe becoming one though.

But I've been wondering... Why do veins raise when they get warm?

lol I've been looking all over the net for the last 20 mins and I can't seem to find it anywhere.

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Specializes in Trauma/ED.

Simple answer...veins dilate not really raise...they fill with more blood by relaxing from the heat...hmm..not sure if this helps you...

I often use a hot pack on difficult IV starts...it WORKS!

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ohhhh thanks. that helps

i wasn't really sure how to word it. thanks again

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Specializes in ER/ICU/STICU.

They dilate when heat is applied to try and cool the blood in the area, just the opposite happens when ice is applied, the veins constrict.

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