Steps In Intravenous Line Insertion
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iDK4YNPWu2Q[/youtube]
Here is the example of how to do an intravenous line insertion. For easy understanding, we have shown demo for insertion technique.
When we need to start an intravenous line or IV, it is something which we must be aware of, especially if we are a medical student, a nurse, a paramedic or a phlebotomist. So, without this we cannot go ahead the same profession as it is one of the fundamental of nursing profession. However, during emergencies it may seem that starting the intravenous line is critical. But if we follow the below mentioned steps we can make the situation better.
So, first of all we need to look for a good spot on the patient’s body where we could start an intravenous line. We need to locate a prominent vein in the crook of the elbow. It is known as the “AC” and we need to start from here. In case of emergencies we can start with the veins of the scalp, feet or neck.
Then we need to apply a tourniquet just a above the spot. Now, we need to tie the tourniquet in a way so that it could be easily taken out after we insert the catheter.
Now, we need to wipe the same spot with the alcohol pad. While doing this, we can check the vein and it is better if it is in a straight line. However, the chosen vein should not be split off into two or more veins. That is why, previously it has been told to choose a large or prominent vein. Otherwise, merged veins could stop the catheter movement.
Once we are done, now we need to get catheter and remove its cap. Then, we need to pull the skin on the intravenous line spot tight with one hand and now we need to insert the needle of the catheter at the chosen spot on the patient’s body. After that, we need to keep the catheter as close as we could to the patient’s skin.
Then, within fraction of seconds, we would see the blood coming out in the catheter. Now, we need to remove the needle as per the instructions mentioned on the catheter. Once, we have taken out the needle, we need to secure it so anyone else cannot the injured or infected by it.
Now, we need to remove the tourniquet and this has to be done because any diversion from this could lead to tissue death or death of the patient. So, even by mistake also we cannot leave the tourniquet on. Then, we need to remove the plastic applicator from the catheter and we need to prevent the back-bleeding either by our finger pressure on the vein above the catheter or we can applying a 4×4 under the catheter to stop the excess flow of the blood.
Then, we need to attach the intravenous line tubing into the catheter. After that, we need to apply a tape to the catheter to stop the tube from moving. Now, we can open the intravenous line. If we have followed all the steps carefully, we would see the fluid dripping in the drip chamber through the tubing.
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