Anyone who works in the nursing field or provides any kind of home care will need to understand how to administer an IV at some point. There are a number of factors that come with the territory, which is why you need to use the right advice, so the process is pain free. With this in mind, take advantage of the information in this guide and utilize it so that you are able to help yourself and your patients at the same time.
Use Only The Best Equipment
While technique will take some time to master administering an IV, it is important that you control what you can, by using only the finest equipment. One of the best ways to do this is by ordering and using IV stands and IV poles that are sturdy and durable. By keeping only the finest equipment around, you will have better control over the assistance that you give your patient.
Adhere To The 12-Second Rule
If you want to make sure that you are not overthinking the administration of IVs, give yourself 12 seconds, tops, before installing it. You are trained, credible and know what you are doing. When you let too much time go, you will be stalling more and trusting yourself less. Rely on your training and find the right vein so that you are able to handle it without second guessing yourself.
Always Take The Necessary Precautions
Any time you are struggling to install an IV with your cumbersome gloves, don't fall into the temptation of taking the gloves off. You need to protect yourself, above all, so that you are able to give your patients the necessary care. Likewise, always use equipment like splash shields and goggles, while also wearing comfortable clothing.
Make The Job Easier With Prep Work
Before installing the IV, make sure that you heat up a moist towel or use a warm blanket and apply it to the IV site. This will cause their veins to emerge and make it easier to install the IV. You should also use substances like nitroglycerine ointment in order to cause harder to reach veins to dilate. By taking these steps, you will be in a great position to install the IV in a way that works out for you. This will also increase the odds of having accuracy with your IV insertion.
Take advantage of these four tips, so that you can find better success with installing IVs.
Share5 October 2015
