Effect of glyceryl trinitrate and ice on dilation of hand veins.

Williams, S; Hecker, J F · Anaesthesia · 1991

other · Level V

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Abstract

Application of glyceryl trinitrate to a finger produced significant dilation of superficial hand veins. Gently rubbing ice over these veins for one minute slightly reduced this dilation, whereas rubbing ice over veins without glyceryl trinitrate caused significant venoconstriction. These results indicate that application of glyceryl trinitrate followed by local cooling may provide a simple and painless means of assisting venepuncture.

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