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Needle Positioning

Correct Angle of Insertion

• The angle of insertion of the needle should not fall below or exceed 15 - 30 degrees.

Correct and Incorrect Needle Positioning

Needle Positioning: Safety and Notes

• Do not "dig" or "probe" for the vein.  "Digging" for veins can cause nerve damage, and damage to the veins and surrounding tissue resulting in bruising and pain to the patient.
• Do not reinsert needles if they came out of the patient while trying to find the vein.  Reinsertion of needles can increase the chance of causing infection.

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