An IV is used to help you get fluids and medicine, and getting one placed in your arm or wrist is a pretty regular procedure that you get used to. You will gain a new friend – your I.V. pole. Emla is a special solution the nurse might offer before an IV to numb your skin. They clean the surface of your skin with an alcohol pad and put a tight tourniquet on your arm to find the vein.

When it is time for the needle stick, you need to hold still. It helps to blow out, look away, or count to ten while they insert the needle. To hold the IV in place, tape or a special bandage is used. You will still be able to use your hand.