What are cannula insertion techniques?
Procedure Steps
- Introduce yourself to the patient.
- Sanitise your hands using alcohol cleanser.
- Re-check the vein.
- Clean the patients skin with the alcohol wipe.
- Remove the needle cover.
- Flashback of blood is seen in the hub.
- Advance the rest of the cannula into the vein.
- Remove the needle.
How do I get better at IV cannulation?
Consider patient’s ergonomics and positioning e.g. patient at 45 degrees with arm hanging over edge of bed. Then gentle tapping over the usual spots e.g. the sides of wrist and on the dorsum of the hand. If a small vein is seen, try tapping it to get it bigger.
How can I improve my IV insertion?
IV Therapy Tips for Starters
- Stay calm and be prepared. Hitting the bullseye on one try will depend on the nurse’s preparation and skill.
- Exude confidence.
- Assess for needle phobia.
- Observe Infection control measures.
- Assess the vein.
- Feel rather than look.
- Ask your patient.
- Use an appropriate cannula size.
Why do cannulas fail?
There are many risk factors Peripheral and central venous cannulas/catheters can both cause extravasation injuries. These may include the type of cannula used ie butterfly needles (metal/steel), large sized catheters relative to the vein size it’s inserted into, and cannulas inadequately secured.
How do I get my veins ready for IV?
How to raise a vein
- Drink plenty of water – staying hydrated helps boost your blood circulation.
- Get yourself warm – wrap up in lots of layers, have a hot meal, walk around for a bit or have a warm shower.
- Soak wherever you’re injecting in warm water – do this for a few minutes, or run warm water over it.
What happens if a cannula is put in wrong?
When an IV is not inserted properly or is otherwise misused, fluids or medicine can leak into the surrounding tissue. This is called IV infiltration, and it can cause harm ranging from irritation to fluid overload, infections, nerve damage, stroke, brain injury, or even death.
What makes cannulation difficult?
Intravenous cannulation may be difficult and is associated with a high risk of complications. If the cannulation fails, this may further delay treatment and transport, potentially resulting in adverse patient outcomes. Cannulation may be difficult if the patient’s veins can not be seen or felt.