CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – Tennova Healthcare – Clarksville has announced the adoption of new vein finding technology to improve quality care and patient satisfaction. This innovative technology will improve the patient experience related to intravenous (IV) catheter placement and blood draws.
“We are always looking at ways to improve the patient experience,” said Tennova Healthcare – Clarksville Chief Executive Officer Alex Villa. “We feel this new technology will provide a positive impact to the blood collection experience for our patients.”
Using near infrared light to create a real-time digital image of patient veins on the skin surface, the units lets clinicians see peripheral veins up to 10mm deep, while also locating valves and bifurcations to aid in determining the best point for IV Catheter insertion. This reduces the time needed for IV insertion, reduces the use of central lines by up to 30 percent, and improves first stick success rates by up to 100 percent when placing an IV catheter.
“By allowing us to quickly locate more veins, especially on patients considered a difficult stick, these units will help increase efficiency and reduce stress for both patient and nurse,” said Tennova Healthcare – Clarksville Administrative Director of the Laboratory Christopher Baggett. “If a patient does not have good options for a peripheral IV, we can tell that without sticking them even once.” Nurses have reported a very enthusiastic response from patients since the addition of the new vein finding technology.
The units will be primarily used in the emergency, laboratory, ICU and surgery departments.