|
Hi June,....As Neil has said, ask for the most experienced tech. It makes a big difference in lowering the number of attempts. I've had nurses ruin perfectly good sticks due to lack of experience. They often apologize and I tell to get me someone experienced. I do not mean to hurt their feelings, but I cannot afford to be getting stuck time after time and having good veins blown because they only do a couple of sticks per day.
As for pain, it depends on the person's tolerance and the location of the stick. The tech also makes a big difference, along with the speed of the needle insertion. A quick stick hurts less than a slow one, at least that is my experience. Mild restriction, warmth, and letting the arm hang down, drinking fluids an hour or so before, and even some light tapping on the area to be stuck can expose an otherwise hidden vein. A person's physical makeup is the biggest factor. Some people have what are called "sewer lines", large exposed veins just under the surface of the skin, while others have small veins hidden under many layers of tissue.
I hope this helps.
__________________
Tom, age 56, diagnosed with MDS RAEB Oct of 2006. Previously treated w/ vidaza, unsuccessfully. Revlimid successful 1 year. Progressed to AML 4/08 w/ 20% blasts, now in remission. BMT to take place 10/08.
|