Pediatric IV Variations Flashcards
Where are a child’s veins located in comparison to adult’s veins?
Both are located in the same areas
Why is it more difficult to find a child’s veins?
subcutaneous fat on children
Where should you look first to choose an IV site for a pediatric patient?
EVERYWHERE
When is it okay to place an IV in a pediatric patient’s foot?
if the child has not begun walking or won’t be walking during hospitalization
What can be used to help locate veins in a child?
transilluminators
Where is the most preferable area to place IVs in children?
a larger vein
What can be used to promote vasodilation for infants?
heel warmers
For older children, what can be used to promote vasodilation?
warm blankets or heel warmers taped to the area
How long should we wait to attempt IV insertion after application of heat to promote vasodilation?
5-7 minutes
Who is the most important person in the room aside from the child during an IV attempt?
the holder of the child
How should a pediatric patient be held when getting an IV inserted?
firmly, but do not extend a joint beyond its normal limits
Why is it important to not extend a joint beyond its normal limits for a pediatric patient being held?
it can cause joint damage to delicate joints
What IV supplies are necessary for a pediatric IV start?
tourniquet, IV catheters and extension set, normal saline flushes, alcohol swabs, flush syringes, pediatric tegaderm/tape, mesh wrap
What sizes do arm boards come in?
all sizes!
What is important to remember to do if a pediatric patient has an arm board on?
assess the skin underneath frequently
What is important to explain to parents when starting a scalp IV on a baby?
the baby’s tiny veins and the fact that veins in the extremities are hidden by lots of baby fat, it is easier to see the veins and start an IV
Does a scalp IV hurt more than a peripheral IV for a child?
no
What gauge needle should be used on a scalp IV for an infant?
smallest gauge feasible (either 22 or 24 gauge)
When can a scalp be used for an IV?
if an infant is less than 9 months old
The more hemodilution, the ______ the pediatric vein will last
longer
How do you know if a tourniquet is too tight on a baby’s scalp?
the skin begins to turn purpleish red
How should an infant’s hair be cut prior to a scalp IV insertion?
with scissors.. NEVER use a razor
Why should a razor blade not be used when cutting a baby’s hair in preparation for a scalp IV?
it may cause micro-abrasions which can lead to infection
Why are scalp veins great for babies 9 months of age and younger?
they have no valves, are easy to see, and they do not roll
