Maritime Medics - how to Inject, Infuse, and Blood Draw

Introduction

The ability to administer injections, perform intravenous (IV) infusions, and conduct blood draws is a fundamental skill set for any Maritime Medic. Onboard a ship, where access to hospital facilities is limited or delayed, these procedures become life-saving interventions. A medic’s expertise in handling needle-based techniques can make a critical difference in managing medical emergencies. At the School of Maritime Medics, our comprehensive training equips medics with both the theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience necessary to confidently perform these vital procedures, ensuring the well-being and safety of crew members in maritime environments.

What is an injection,infusion and blood drawing?

An injection is a method of delivering medication directly into the body using a needle, often into a muscle, vein, or under the skin.

An infusion is when fluids or medication are slowly administered into a vein using an IV over a longer period.

Blood drawing, also known as phlebotomy, is the process of using a needle to extract blood from a vein for testing or other purposes.

These techniques are vital in medical care for delivering treatments and diagnosing health conditions.

The Scope of Needle-Based Training

Our training covers a broad range of needle-based techniques, focusing on three core areas essential to providing medical care at sea. Each of these areas is designed to build both competence and confidence in Maritime Medics.

Accessing Subcutaneous Areas

Medics must be adept at accessing the skin, subcutaneous tissue, and muscles for the purpose of injecting medications or fluids. This aspect of the training includes:

• Administering intravenous (IV), intramuscular (IM), and subcutaneous (SC) injections with accuracy and care.
• Learning proper aseptic techniques to minimize infection risks during procedures.
• Identifying the correct anatomical landmarks to ensure the safe and effective delivery of medications.

Catheter Placement in Vessels

In emergencies, placing IV catheters into veins is essential for administering fluids or medications quickly. This skill is particularly crucial when treating patients who are dehydrated or in shock. Medics are trained to:

• Insert IV catheters into peripheral veins with precision.
• Follow strict sterile handling procedures to prevent infection.
• Troubleshoot challenges, such as finding veins in patients with poor venous access, and successfully overcoming these obstacles.

Handling Injectable Medications and Solutions

Proper medication handling is essential for all Maritime Medics. Understanding the correct usage, dosage, and preparation of injectable medications ensures patient safety and treatment efficacy. During training, participants learn to:

• Read labels carefully to verify the drug name, concentration, and permitted route of administration (IV, IM, or SC).
• Use appropriate diluents to reconstitute medications and mix solutions, such as saline or other infusion fluids, safely.
• Handle injection equipment properly, ensuring accurate dosing and avoiding contamination.

Familiarization with Infusion Devices

Beyond injections, administering IV infusions is a critical aspect of a medic’s duties on board. Participants receive comprehensive training in the use of infusion devices, ensuring they can efficiently manage intravenous therapies. This section of the course covers:

• Understanding and using microdrip sets for precise control of fluid delivery rates.
• Working with three-way stopcocks and extensions to administer medications from multiple sources seamlessly.
• Monitoring infusion rates and ensuring the correct volume of fluids is delivered, especially in cases requiring sustained IV therapy.

The Importance of Aseptic Technique

Aseptic techniques are critical in preventing infection during any needle-based procedure. Medics are trained to adhere to strict sterilization protocols, which significantly reduce the risk of complications. The course emphasizes:

• Properly disinfecting the skin prior to injections, catheter placement, or blood draws.
• Handling needles, syringes, and medication vials with sterile techniques to prevent contamination.
• Safely disposing of sharps and contaminated materials to reduce the risk of injury or infection during and after the procedure.

Practical, Hands-On Training

One of the core principles at the School of Maritime Medics is practical experience. Throughout the program, participants practice their skills on models and simulated patients. This hands-on training allows medics to develop the dexterity and confidence needed to perform needle-based procedures in real-life situations. Training includes:

• • Multiple sessions to practice IV catheter insertion, injections, and blood draws.
  • Engaging in realistic scenarios that replicate the challenges of performing these procedures under high-pressure maritime conditions.
  • Detailed instruction on the preparation and administration of injectable medications, ensuring medics are fully competent in managing drug dosages and delivery methods.