When looking at a map of a patient’s vasculature with the AccuVein AV400 vein finder you’ll be able to locate valves and bifurcations. The knowledge of valve and bifurcation location allows you avoid these areas, facilitating smoother venous access. It is important to understand why this is such a great value add for the nurses that we are in contact with everyday.
How do I see valves or bifurcations with the AV400?
Valves can be seen by shining the device on the skin, using the wipe technique to clear the vein of blood and watching it refill. The area where the refill stops is most likely a valve. Bifurcations are the areas where veins branch off and these can be seen by simply shining the device on the skin.
Why is it necessary to avoid valves in venipuncture and IV access?
Hitting a valve during access can cause a vein to be blown if the valve flap were to obstruct the flow of the solutions being administered, and this can cause the patient pain.
Why is it necessary to avoid bifurcations?
Bifurcations can cause back flow issues as well as obstruct the flow of fluids being administered.
