NICUTipSheet.r5
7/25/03
08:59 AM
Page 1
NICU Tip Sheet:
QUESTION
POSSIBLE CAUSE
Flashback
appears slower
• Flashback appears in the FLASH-VUE®
window before the flash chamber
Insertion feels dull
Blown vein
IV Safety Catheter
TIPS FOR SUCCESS
• Look for the first sign of flashback in the
FLASH-VUE window on top, about halfway
down the needle
• Pre flush the catheter since blood will be quickly
seen in the flush fluid
• Needle/catheter design different
than what had been previously used
(tactile differences)
• Optimal insertion is with an appropriate insertion
angle and skin traction
• Catheter tip partially covering needle
• Visually inspect that the catheter is fully seated
prior to insertion
• Needle tip bent
• Pull needle cover straight off to prevent damage
to the ultra thin needle
• Angle of insertion too high
• Lower angle of insertion
• Catheter tip partially covering needle
• Ensure that catheter is fully seated prior to insertion
• Lower angle of insertion
NICUTipSheet.r5
7/25/03
09:00 AM
Page 2
NICU Tip Sheet:
QUESTION
Tough to thread
catheter off needle
Tough to thread
catheter off needle
IV Safety Catheter
POSSIBLE CAUSE
TIPS FOR SUCCESS
• Only tip of needle in vein
(catheter not yet in vein)
• Slightly advance catheter and needle together
after initial flashback
• Pushing down on the hub
• Lightly thread the catheter off the needle
(push out, not down, on tab)
• Hub seal feels snug
• Loosen hub prior to insertion by slightly
advancing catheter forward, then fully reseat
catheter hub
• Catheter is hitting valve
• Consider floating catheter in with fluids
(see inservice video)
• Need to thread with needle support
(all polyurethane materials are softer
than FEP materials)
For complete product details see Instructions for Use DSL# 02-0305
©2003 Medex, Inc.
• Thread the catheter up into the vein then remove
the needle (not simultaneously)
• If catheter is threaded without the needle, use fluid
to support and thread the catheter
VA517 2003.07