Venipuncture Flashcards
Define venipuncture
the process of obtaining intravenous (IV) access for the purpose of administering IV therapy or drawing a blood sample
What are the types of Vascular Access Devices
- intraosseus (IO)
- short peripheral IV catheter
- midline catheter
- CVAD/ PICC
When should an Intraosseus (IO) VAD be used?
-emergency situations when peripheral IV access is impossible or delay could be life threatening
Where are the sites for insertion of Intraosseus VAD
-tibia, femur, humerus and sternum– the site must be an intact (no damage to bone) with no signs of compromise
-short term use only
-must have special training to do this
Describe a Short Peripheral IV Catheter
-uses a winged butterfly needle (can be in the vein for up to 2 hours)
-an over the needle catheter is what is inserted for an IV start (can be in the vein for days)
What is the difference between passive and active safety devices?
passive– do not need to do anything to activate the safety mechanism, it will automatically happen
active– need to do something to activate
What is IV catheter blood control technology?
-when the metal stylet is removed from the plastic cannula, there is a temporary one-way valve that prevents blood from coming out and allows the nurse time to connect an IV extension set– IV catheters that don’t have this tech require digital pressure
Describe Midline Catheters
-for therapy of 1-4 weeks
-longer than PIV catheter
-inserted near the antecubital area and tip located level/near the level of axilla (NOT a CVAD because tip does not sit in the central circulation)
-can be single or double lumen
-requires special training; inserted by same nurses who insert PICCs
What is the flow rate in hand and lower forearm?
10-95mL/min
What is the flow rate in upper arm?
250mL/min
What is the flow rate closer to the superior vena cave?
2-3L/min
What should you avoid when selecting a vein for IV?
areas of flexion, lateral and ventral surfaces of the wrist, compromised extremities or veins, uncommon sites such as above the ACF, veins in the lower extremities in adults
What is a vasovagal reaction?
a potential complication of venipuncture– usually a short-lived event where there is a decrease in HR and BP so the pt becomes pale, dizzy, feels hot/cold, and may faint
Define hematoma
a collection of blood outside of the vein
What IV sites are used in pediatrics?
scalp, forearm, hand and foot
