What should be done if a patient experiences discomfort during IV insertion?

If a patient experiences discomfort during IV insertion, stopping the procedure and reassessing the situation is essential for both the patient's well-being and the success of the IV placement. Discomfort may indicate issues such as a poor insertion angle, improper catheter size, or patient anxiety. By halting the procedure, the healthcare professional can evaluate the cause of the discomfort, adjust their technique, or consider alternate sites or methods for insertion.

This approach prioritizes patient comfort and safety, while also allowing the practitioner to ensure that the IV line can be effectively placed without causing further pain or complications. Reassessing the situation may also involve communicating with the patient to understand their feelings and providing reassurance or additional support.

Continuing with the procedure despite discomfort could lead to further pain and potential injury to the patient, making it imperative to pause and reassess. Additionally, applying heat or administering pain medication may help alleviate discomfort, but these should be performed only after assessing the cause for discomfort and ensuring the procedure can safely continue.