Expert: Dr Ian Jackson - please note UK based - 9/25/2009

Question
Hi I don't know if you can help me out our not but I'm hoping you can answer something for me. Ok I'm known as a hard stick when it comes to getting an IV Started and my worry is they might not be able to get one before surgery and was wondering what would happen if they couldn't get one in would they cancel my surgery our just put me under using a mask and then try to get one started then . Should I tell the Nurse a head of time incase they want me to come in sooner as to not hold the surgery up since there on a time limit ? thanks for your input on this matter.


Answer
Hi Diana
It is always worth letting them know before hand that you might present them with a challenge. However here in the UK we wouldn't send for you any sooner. I would suggest you keep your arms and hands as warm as possible before getting your IV. If you presented problems then we would certainly just give you something to breathe through a mask so you would go off to sleep.
I'm sure you will be OK.
Kind regards
Dr Ian Jackson