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The Art of the IV Start: A Comprehensive Guide to Successful Venipuncture

Chinua Achebe

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Published in The Art Of The Iv Start: Common Techniques And Tricks Of The Trade For Establishing Successful Peripheral Intravenous Lines

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Intravenous (IV) therapy is a common procedure used to deliver fluids, medications, and nutrients directly into the bloodstream. IV therapy can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, infections, and cancer. Starting an IV can be a challenging skill, but with the right technique and a little practice, anyone can master the art of the IV start.

The Art of the Iv Start: Common Techniques and Tricks of the Trade for Establishing Successful Peripheral Intravenous Lines

by Kolby Moore

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	641 KB
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Print length	:	82 pages

Choosing the Right Equipment

The first step to starting an IV is choosing the right equipment. You will need:

* An IV catheter (IVC) * An IV needle * An IV tubing set * An IV bag of fluid * A tourniquet * Alcohol swabs * Gauze pads * Tape

Preparing the Patient

Before you start an IV, you need to prepare the patient. This includes:

* Explaining the procedure to the patient * Obtaining the patient's consent * Positioning the patient comfortably * Applying a tourniquet to the patient's arm

Inserting the IV Catheter

Once the patient is prepared, you can insert the IV catheter. To do this, you will:

* Clean the insertion site with an alcohol swab * Palpate the vein and insert the IV needle at a 15-30 degree angle * Advance the IV needle until you see blood return * Remove the IV needle and insert the IV catheter over the guide wire * Secure the IV catheter with tape

Starting the IV Fluid

Once the IV catheter is in place, you can start the IV fluid. To do this, you will:

* Connect the IV tubing set to the IV catheter * Hang the IV bag of fluid on an IV pole * Open the IV clamp and adjust the flow rate as needed

Monitoring the IV

Once the IV fluid is started, you need to monitor the patient for any complications. These complications include:

* Infiltration (the IV fluid leaks into the surrounding tissue) * Extravasation (the IV fluid leaks out of the vein) * Infection * Thrombosis (a blood clot forms in the vein) * Air embolism (an air bubble enters the bloodstream)

Removing the IV

Once the IV fluid is finished, you need to remove the IV catheter. To do this, you will:

* Stop the IV flow and remove the IV tubing set * Apply pressure to the insertion site * Remove the IV catheter and dispose of it properly

Starting an IV can be a challenging skill, but with the right technique and a little practice, anyone can master the art of the IV start. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can perform a safe and successful venipuncture.

The Art of the Iv Start: Common Techniques and Tricks of the Trade for Establishing Successful Peripheral Intravenous Lines

by Kolby Moore

4.4 out of 5