Abbotsford Regional Hospital has received a hand-held device that uses infrared light to locate veins beneath the skin.
The vein finder was recently purchased through funding from the Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation (FVHCF) for maternal, infant, child and youth patients.
FVHCF executive director Elizabeth Harris said the easy-to-use technology will "help improve the patient experience." It can sometimes be challenging for health-care professionals to detect veins, especially in young children.
One of the nurses of the unit described how thankful she is for the vein finder.
"Recently we had a patient in triage, and it was very difficult to see any of her veins. But when we brought in the vein finder, we were able to easily find her veins and start her IV. The patient was very happy," the nurse said.
Dr. Lakhbir Jassal with FVHCF donor relations said the vein finder is a welcome addition to the hospital.
"By helping to quickly and efficiently locate veins and arteries, Fraser Health care teams are able to deliver excellent health care for even the smallest patients," she said.
The FVHCF raises money for vital equipment and programs funded or endorsed by Fraser Health in Abbotsford, Mission, Chilliwack, Hope, Agassiz and Harrison Hot Springs.
Visit fvhcf.ca or contact Lakhbir.Jassal@fraserhealth.ca for more information about supporting projects.
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