Hitting Vein Valves When Starting IVs or Drawing Blood (Venipuncture)

Vein valves help prevent the backflow of blood. If you hit a valve while performing venipuncture (whether starting an IV or drawing blood), you can try to slightly pull back and reposition the needle. However, it is important NOT to force the needle through the valve tissue or start "fishing" around with the needle, as this can cause permanent damage or rupture the vein.

If you are starting an IV, you can try to "float" the needle in by flushing with saline as you advance. This technique can help open up the valve flaps to reduce the risk of hitting them.

If this approach fails, the best option is to remove the needle/IV, apply pressure & cover the site with gauze, and then obtain a new kit to start in a new location.

Also, make sure you are actually "in" the vein. A common issue many people face is getting blood return and assuming they are fully in the vein.

They may then try to slide off the IV cannula, but it won’t go. Sometimes, it's not a "valve" issue, but rather the needle hasn’t been advanced far enough into the vein to allow the cannula to slide off.

Before performing these techniques, it's essential to verify your facility’s protocols for best practices in these situations.

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