Why Infrared Vein Finders are a Vital Tool for IV Pros
As anyone who has ever had an IV can attest, the process of finding a vein and starting an IV can be painful and time-consuming. However, recent advancements in medical technology have made this process much easier and less uncomfortable for patients. One of the most promising of these advancements is the infrared vein finder, which uses infrared light to locate veins under the skin. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of infrared vein finders for starting IVs, and we’ll look at some of the research that supports their use.
What is an Infrared Vein Finder?
An infrared vein finder is a handheld device that uses infrared light to detect veins under the skin. The device shines a beam of infrared light onto the skin, which is absorbed by the blood in the veins. This creates a contrast between the veins and the surrounding tissue, making the veins easier to see. Infrared vein finders are particularly useful when dealing with patients who have difficult-to-locate veins, such as those with dark skin or who are dehydrated.
The Benefits of Infrared Vein Finders
There are several benefits to using infrared vein finders for starting IVs. First and foremost, vein finders can reduce the number of attempts needed to start an IV, which can save time and reduce patient discomfort. Studies have shown that vein finders can increase the success rate of IV placement by up to 50%, which means that fewer attempts are needed to find a vein. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who are already in pain or discomfort, as it reduces the amount of time they need to spend undergoing the procedure.
Additionally, vein finders can help healthcare professionals locate veins that might otherwise be difficult to see. This can be particularly useful for patients who have veins that are small or located in areas that are hard to access, such as the hands or feet. By using a vein finder, healthcare professionals can locate these veins more easily, which can reduce the amount of time it takes to start an IV.
Research on Infrared Vein Finders
There have been several studies conducted on the effectiveness of infrared vein finders, and the results have been overwhelmingly positive. One study published in the Journal of Emergency Nursing found that using a vein finder increased the success rate of IV placement from 40% to 90%. Another study published in the Journal of Infusion Nursing found that using a vein finder reduced the number of attempts needed to start an IV by more than half.
Conclusion
Infrared vein finders are a valuable tool for healthcare professionals who regularly start IVs. By using a vein finder, healthcare professionals can reduce the number of attempts needed to start an IV, locate veins that might otherwise be difficult to see, and ultimately make the process of starting an IV less uncomfortable for patients. With the growing popularity of infrared vein finders, it’s clear that this technology will continue to play an important role in the future of medical care.
