A Simple Technique By Tom Hoerl REMT-P Of all the procedures that we are capable of performing, IVs, or venipunctures, are performed the most frequently. Since we perform these procedures so frequently many of us have become complacent with the more mundane tasks of proper site preparation and securely taping down the site and tubing. Proper site preparation is important in reducing the risk of infection. For many years the ED staff has routinely removed all in-field IVs. Recently I have noticed that a number of paramedics are no longer using clean techniques.
Clean technique is simple and only takes a few seconds to perform.
Either solution should be applied with a firm circular motion starting from the center moving outward and left to dry. You should refrain from touching the site. The firm pressure actually removes dead surface tissue, which is where most bacteria lives. In addition to the pressure, heat is generated by the friction and this will also help disinfect the area. This may not seem like a problem but it can present one.