Where is the best site for IV placement in infants?

The best site for IV placement in infants is in the veins of the hand, foot, and scalp due to several important factors.

In infants, peripheral veins can be quite small and difficult to access; thus, veins located in the hand, foot, and scalp are more prominent and accessible. These sites generally allow for easier and safer access, especially considering the delicate nature of infant anatomy. Infants also have a higher percentage of body water, making these veins suitable for fluid administration and medications without significant risk of complications.

The scalp vein is particularly useful for IV access because it is often more visible and provides a stable site for catheter placement. Additionally, these peripheral sites facilitate adequate blood flow while minimizing the risk of complications associated with central access routes.

While other sites mentioned, such as the jugular vein, may be used in specific circumstances, they carry greater risks associated with central line placements, such as infection and vascular injury. The aorta is not a suitable site for standard IV placement due to the potential for severe complications and the dangers of accessing such a major vessel. Thus, the selection of hand, foot, and scalp veins proves to be the most practical and safely viable option for IV placement in infants.