Using a butterfly needle (also known as a winged infusion set) involves a specific procedure to ensure successful vein access, primarily for blood draws or administering medication. The key is to insert it correctly and stabilize it to prevent dislodgement.
Here's a step-by-step guide based on the reference material:
-
Preparation: Gather all necessary supplies, including the butterfly needle, vacutainer tubes (if drawing blood), adapter, antiseptic wipes, tourniquet, gauze, and tape.
-
Patient Preparation: Explain the procedure to the patient and position their arm comfortably.
-
Vein Selection: Apply a tourniquet to make the veins more prominent. Palpate to identify a suitable vein. Clean the insertion site thoroughly with an antiseptic wipe.
-
Needle Insertion:
- Hold the butterfly needle by its wings.
- Insert the needle into the vein at a shallow angle (usually around 10-30 degrees).
- Watch for a flash of blood in the tubing, indicating successful vein entry.
-
Stabilization: Once the needle is in the vein, stabilize it by taping the wings to the patient's skin. According to the reference, proper stabilization makes "it is unlikely that the butterfly needle will slip out of the vein."
-
Blood Collection (if applicable):
- Attach the vacutainer tube to the adapter.
- Allow the tube to fill with blood.
- Remove the tube from the hub when the blood flow stops.
-
Needle Removal: After the blood draw or infusion, carefully remove the needle. Apply pressure to the insertion site with gauze.
-
Post-Care: Secure the gauze with tape and instruct the patient to keep the site clean and dry.
