TSLexi I think you're on to a good idea, in theory at least anyway. Now you just need to figure out some way to implement it and use your knowledge to help people. Not trying to get too far off topic but as a side note I used to be married to an older woman myself who was 42 while I was 24 and she had three daughters so I know what it's like to take on responsibilities like that and it takes a tall measure of a man to do it so props to you brother. Now, onto the teaching laymen how to initiate catheters... Ehhhhh..I would have to say most definitely not, hell they're hard enough to do when you're a paramedic or nurse in a favorable environment let alone. Also catheters require extreme diligence to ensure they do not become infected or form clots. Think about it, it's hard enough to get some people to follow simple HR such as using alcohol swabs, imagine if they had a constant opening into their body with no way of properly keeping it sanitized, eek. Maybe a small pocket sized guide to vein anatomy would be a better fit in the scenario you're talking about. Just my .02
Yeah, catheters are hard; Mom knows how to do them, but I don't.
Keep it sanitized by capping it while not in use, flush it with heparin to prevent clots from forming, etc.
If you're too lazy to wipe the skin with antiseptic, you shouldn't be IVing.
Sadly, the only needle exchange in the state is two hours away, and I have zero reason to go there.
Why don't needle exchanges give out proper mL graduated Luer-lock syringes and 30G 0.5" needles? They're easier to use, and more convenient.
I fucking detest insulin syringes for anything but their intended purpose. And insulin really needs to be dosed like EVERY SINGLE OTHER DRUG.
Also, I know I've been entering my veins almost every time because I flag, but I still have these nasty, although painless bruises all over my antecubital fossa. Sometimes I skin-pop, but most of the time I try to mainline.
Is it because I'm not keeping pressure on the injection site post-injection?
