Venipuncture issues

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I had finished all my pre-reqs or nursing except for the A&P. It was too full and I couldn't get in. So, I'm currently taking a Phlebotomy course and really enjoying it.

I have a few problems though. The first stick that I did went GREAT! I had immediate flashback and everything went smooth. The 2nd time, I got no flashback. I immediately panicked (sp?). Ever since then, I start trembling when it comes time to stick. It's not because the needle or blood bother me. It's because I'm so afraid of hurting the patient!

Today, the instructor wanted me to regain my confidence, so he had me do a venipuncture on him....went great. I started to tremble, but he had me do deep breathing. Then he had me butterfly his hand. I hit the wall of the vein, but he just had me move it to one side a tiny bit and I got it.

He keeps talking about how we're supposed to feel a "pop" when going into the vein. I have never felt that and am aondering why. There is only one other person in the class that feels this "pop".

I'd also appreciate any advice you can give me. I start my clinicals at an Endocrinologist next week. :uhoh21:

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Specializes in cardiac/critical care/ informatics.

You don't always feel the pop in fourteen years i can count on one hand how many times I have felt the pop. So not everyone feels it. Also it will take time and practice to feel comfortable, with IV's and most anything that you are learning to do, sounds like he gave you good advise. good luck

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You don't always feel the pop in fourteen years i can count on one hand how many times I have felt the pop. So not everyone feels it. Also it will take time and practice to feel comfortable, with IV's and most anything that you are learning to do, sounds like he gave you good advise. good luck

I felt better knowing I wasn't the only one, but he made it sound as though we should all be feeling that "pop". I'm glad to know that it's not always felt.

I've got to get over this anxiety! I'm just hoping that the more I do it, the calmer I will be. I've always had a habit of working myself all up over the slightest things....that's a habit I need to break.

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I know how you feel, I too have an issue with starting IV's. When I was in the hospital I had nurses that were unable to find my veins and I was traumatized, now I am woried about missing on my patients! My instructors keep telling me that with practice I will be fine.

I have never felt the pop either, but I usually get a flashback, but I have a hard time threading the catheter without blowing the vein, any help with this?

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