Journal of Blood Disorders & Transfusion

Abstract

A Comparison of the Effects of Different Equipment used for Venipuncture to Aid in Promoting More Effective Simulation Education

Chieko Fujii, Hiroyuki Ishii and Atsuo Takanishi

Patient safety during venipuncture is of utmost importance. In Japan, good venipuncture practices are developed in nursing schools and hospitals by the use of educational simulators. This study examined techniques used by experienced nurses to educate nursing students and nurses on venipuncture techniques. Forty-four nurses completed a questionnaire and were videotaped during venipuncture performed on a model of a simulated arm that we had developed. Using software to analyze motion and movement along the X-Y coordinates, we measured puncture angles and distance travelled by the needle using a 20 ml syringe, other syringe sizes, and vacuum tubes. Needle and hand movement were also examined. Venipuncture requires a point of a vein to be identified and insertion of a needle into that puncture site. Simulation training may assist to consciously avoid unnecessary movements caused by hand rotation and also emphasizes the importance of learning the basic movements for needle insertion. It is important that educational methods and evaluation are linked and developed using an appropriate simulator of the venipuncture technique.