IV Sites

- The choice of IV site depends on several factors, such as:

• The type and duration of therapy
• The size and condition of the vein
• The patient’s preference and comfort
• The patient’s medical history and current status
• The potential for complications or interference

- Some general guidelines for choosing an IV site are:

• Go by “feel”, not by sight. Palpate the vein for “bounce” or resilience.
• Use warm compresses and allow the arm to hang dependently to fill the veins.
• Apply the tourniquet 10 mmHg below the known systolic pressure. Arterial flow continues with maximum venous constriction.
• Avoid areas of joint flexion, such as the wrist or antecubital fossa, as they may cause kinking or dislodgement of the catheter.
• Start distally and use the shortest length/smallest gauge access device that will properly administer the prescribed therapy.
• Rotate sites every 72 to 96 hours or as needed to prevent complications.
• Avoid veins that are sclerosed, thrombosed, inflamed, infected, or injured.

- Some common peripheral IV sites are:

• Cephalic vein: located on the lateral side of the arm, near the thumb. It is large and easy to access but may be more painful.
• Basilic vein: located on the medial side of the arm, near the pinky finger. It is large and easy to access but may be more prone to infiltration or nerve damage.
• Median cubital vein: located in the antecubital fossa, between the cephalic and basilic veins. It is large and easy to access but may be more affected by joint flexion or movement.
• Dorsal metacarpal veins: located on the back of the hand, between the knuckles. They are small and superficial but may be more comfortable and less likely to interfere with activities.