Why are jaudinced babies harder to start IVs on>

dawngloves, BSN, RN · Oct 27, 2006

I've never noticed.

Gompers, BSN, RN · Oct 27, 2006

We notice that they are harder sticks, too. Either their skin is tough like leather or they're dehydrated. Either way, their veins seem to blow a lot when you start IVs on them. I never really researched WHY this might be. Anyone have any other ideas?

prmenrs, RN · Oct 27, 2006

They're term babies (more tissue between you and the vein), almost ALWAYS dehydrated. Go slower, wait longer for a blood return. Flush the catheter before--makes it easier for the blood to flow back if the inside of the catheter is wet vs dry.

cathys01 · Oct 28, 2006

Had this exact issue today with a jaundiced baby - couldn't get an IV to save our lives (or his!), everything blew - even if we'd get a wonderful blood return...

Jokerhill · Nov 11, 2006

Their hct is generaly higher, and dehydration. If you notice they also will not bleed well with heelsticks and are slow feeders.

Elvish, BSN, DNP, RN, NP · Nov 15, 2006

I agree and would say dehydration is our biggest issue with these kiddos. If their veins are as dry as their lips, that explains a lot.

SFRN · Nov 16, 2006

I think there are numberous reasons why it may be more diffciult to start an IV in a baby. The size of the vein for one. I have found that using my wee-sight transilluminator REALLY helps identify veins that would not normally be visualized. I also notice that I have trouble with the older chubby babies.