Geriatric IV

Using the Geriatric IV module, users have an opportunity to learn the particular cognitive and motor skills needed for IV access in older patients. Four patient cases provide practice in aseptic technique, tourniquet application and hand pressure to help engorge the vein, site selection and catheter insertion, and accessing fragile veins that respond poorly to palpation, rolling veins needing greater stabilization, and superficial veins requiring a lower angle of insertion.

An evaluation report is automatically generated every time a user attempts a case. This report can be viewed and printed by the user or system administrator to monitor progress and highlight skills that need to be improved. The simulation is also recorded and can be played back at any time, providing convenient visual review.

Training Objectives

In the Geriatric Intravenous Catheterization Module, the user will learn to:

• Prepare the patient and/or family for insertion of an intravenous catheter
• Use proper aseptic techniques to minimize nosocomial infections
• Choose an appropriate site for inserting an intravenous catheter
• Insert the cannula (needle and catheter) into the vein
• Thread the catheter into the vein and remove the needle (properly disposing of a safety needle)
• Dress and stabilize the inserted catheter
• Respond to a variety of challenges presented by a geriatric patient

Realistic Scenarios

The CathSim® system supplies a learning experience that exposes users to real-world scenarios. Combining software, the AccuTouch® Intravenous Interface Device, and a PC, the system creates an environment where the human patient and proxy devices exhibit realistic mass, feel, and natural reactions such as bleeding, resistance, responses to pain, and flashback of blood. Users experience varying degrees of difficulty and complications presented by geriatric patients, which reflect the physical changes associated with aging, including loss of skin elasticity and connective tissue. The system's transparency and side views show the user's angle of approach in real time, adding an understanding of the underlying anatomy and encouraging excellent technique.