How to Palpate a Vein

Veins are the blood vessels that carry blood toward the heart. Most of the time you can see veins through the skin, especially where they cross over bones. Veins are most visible in the arms and resemble small tubes. Sometimes because of weight, temperature, or a skin condition veins may not be readily visible through the skin. In these situations, palpation can help locate a vein using your sense of touch. This skill is useful in the health care profession when attempting to gain intravenous access.

Instructions

• 1

  Wash your hands or use an anti-bacterial disinfectant before making physical contact. This is to prevent the spread of germs.

• 2

  Inspect the area in which you are trying to locate a vein. The arms, hands and feet are the easiest areas to locate veins where they run over bony processes.

• 3

  Steady the area you have chosen to palpate for the vein. You can do this by gently grasping the area with one hand.

• 4

  Extend your index finger.

• 5

  Push down on the site using gentle pressure. When you feel a firm, spongy bounce back you have located a vein.