Intravenous (IV) Catheter Insertion and Removal: Keys to Success (Nursing)

00:04 So, now, let's look at some special considerations.

00:07 So, there are possible complications that go along with IV insertion, we'll take a look at those.

00:13 One of those is improper insertion technique and this can lead to infection, this is what we do not want in nursing.

00:20 A hematoma can also result from inserting the IV catheter through the vein or by not applying enough pressure when we remove that catheter when we're done with treatment.

00:30 Also using tape instead of a catheter stabilization device increases the risk of accidental removal.

00:38 So, let's look at some keys to success.

00:40 First of all, slow down. Think through what you're gonna do next.

00:44 Make sure you prepared your equipment before you get going.

00:48 Also take the time to find a good insertion site.

00:51 Now, if you remember this is the step we do before we actually insert the IV catheter and stick the patient, so make sure you're being choosy about this and feel confident in where you decide to insert that IV.

01:05 If you're having trouble, we can use heating pads to help dilate that vein so we can so those a little bit better.

01:12 Or if you really can't find it, use something called a vein finder or a vein visualizer that your facility may have as equipment for you to use.

01:21 So, let's look at some further keys to success.

01:24 So, stabilizing the skin and the vein is essential.

01:28 When we go to puncture the vein, it wants to do what we call roll or move when we go to puncture the skin, so stabilizing that is essential for success on IV insertion.

01:40 Now, if available, try to attempt distal insertion before attempting proximal insertion on your patient.

01:46 So, as a nurse, when go to insert an IV, very tempting, but please do not make more than two insertion attempts.

01:55 This could potentially waste sites for other nurses or other opportunities to be successful for the patient.

02:02 Lastly, if you're going to insert an IV, don't forget to assess your patient and their history.

02:08 So, for example, if a patient has had a mastectomy in one arm that you're going to insert the IV, this is a big no-no.

02:16 As well as if they have a dialysis fistula in the IV side, a blood clot, otherwise known as a DBT, or any sort of lymphoedema.

02:26 Alright, so these keys to success, I hope are great takeaways for you in regards to IV insertion.

02:33 Thank you for watching.