Top 10 [details in audio]

  1. Set the stage – exude confidence and be prepared
  2. Choose the right cannula size – a smaller working IV is infinitely better than none
  3. Feeling is better than looking – trust yourself
  4. Mark the site – things get wonky when you take your hands off to disinfect
  5. Tourniquets can mess you up – try to use a holder’s hand to occlude the vein
  6. The holder rules – get as many hands on deck as you need.
  7. Tension is good –  a little counter traction on the skin with your non-dominant hand helps to decrease the friction as the needle goes through the fascial layers.
  8. Stay in line – your needle is an extension of your arm
  9. Gravity is your friend – the kinder, gentler tourniquet
  10. The 3 Fs – flash, flatten, and forward. Get the flash at a 30 degree angle, flatten that angle, (advance another 1mm), and advance the plastic catheter over the needle into success

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