18 Questions
Which of the following is a technique that can be used if difficulty is encountered in finding an appropriate vein for cannulation?
Using gravity by holding the arm down
What should a healthcare professional do before performing intravenous cannulation?
Wash the patient's skin with soap and water
How long should an antiseptic solution be applied with friction before intravenous cannulation?
30-60 seconds
What should be done to encourage vasodilation before cannulation?
Use a warm towel or pack
Which equipment is NOT mentioned as necessary for intravenous cannulation site preparation?
Blood products administration set
Why should peripheral venous access be avoided in an injured, infected, or burned extremity if possible?
It may cause further injury or infection
What is the recommended gauge size for routine IV catheter use?
22 Gauge: 0.8 mm
Why are the superficial veins of the upper extremities preferred for peripheral venous access?
Interfere less with patient mobility
What is the purpose of starting distally and moving proximally in prolonged courses of therapy?
To avoid hitting valves
Which arm is recommended for IV cannulation if possible?
Non-dominant arm
Why is it important to use a straight portion of a vein during IV cannulation?
To decrease the chance of valve obstruction
Why should a large size catheter be used in emergency situations?
To allow for quicker fluid administration
What is the purpose of ensuring that the patient is comfortable before starting an IV procedure?
To reduce the risk of thrombophlebitis
Why is it important to thank the patient after completing the IV procedure?
To show appreciation for their cooperation and patience
What could happen if an irritant solution leaks into the tissue during an IV infusion?
Skin and soft tissue necrosis
Which complication can arise if IV fluids are not safely infused into a central vein?
Thrombophlebitis
What is a critical aspect of choosing a vein for IV access to avoid complications?
The location's proximity to peripheral nerves
Why is the use of sterile syringes emphasized in preparing for an IV procedure?
To reduce the risk of thrombophlebitis
Study Notes
Indications for Intravenous Cannulation
- Repeated blood sampling
- Administration of IV fluids, medications, chemotherapy, nutritional support, blood or blood products, and radiological contrast agents
Contraindications for Intravenous Cannulation
- No absolute contraindications, but avoid peripheral venous access in an injured, infected, or burned extremity if possible
Equipment for Intravenous Cannulation
- Non-sterile gloves
- Tourniquet
- Antiseptic wipes
- 5-ml syringe
- Sterile gauze
- Cannula
- Saline
- Adhesive plaster
Pre-Procedure Steps
- Introduce yourself to the patient and explain the procedure to gain informed consent
- Ensure adequate light and a warm room to encourage vasodilation
- Ensure the patient is in a comfortable position with a pillow or rolled towel under the extended arm
- Wash the patient's skin with soap and water if visibly dirty
- Use techniques to find an appropriate vein, such as inspection of the opposite extremity, opening and closing the fist, using gravity, gentle tapping or stroking of the site, or applying heat
Technique for Intravenous Cannulation
- Apply tourniquet and select the appropriate vein
- Apply an antiseptic solution with friction for 30-60 seconds, allowing it to air dry
- Use the smallest size (largest gauge number) of catheter possible to prevent damage to the vessel intima
- Choose a straight portion of a vein to minimize the chance of hitting valves
- Use the patient's non-dominant arm (if possible)
- Start distally and move proximally for prolonged courses of therapy
Complications of Intravenous Cannulation
- Pain
- Failure to access the vein
- Blood stops flowing into the flashback chamber
- Arterial puncture
- Thrombophlebitis
- Hypersensitivity reaction
- Peripheral nerve palsy
- Skin and soft tissue necrosis (when irritant solutions leak into the tissue)
Indications for Intravenous Fluids
- Maintain or replace body stores
- Restore acid-base balance
- Restore the volume of blood components
- Administer medication
- Provide nutrition
- Monitor CVP
Equipment for Intravenous Fluids
- Sterile syringes
- Spirit swabs
- Drip stand
- Drip set
Technique for Intravenous Fluids
- Introduce yourself to the patient
Learn about the process of peripheral intravenous cannulation, including indications, contraindications, and required equipment. Understand when to avoid peripheral venous access and how to prepare for the procedure.
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