Enhancing confidence and skills in ultrasound-guided IV access: a quality improvement project
Introduction: Ultrasound-guided intravenous (USG-IV) access is an essential skill, particularly for patients with difficult venous access. Studies show that USG-IV improves first-pass success rates, reduces patient discomfort and minimises complications.1,2 Despite its benefits, many clinicians lack...
Saved in:
| Main Authors: | , , |
|---|---|
| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Elsevier
2025-06-01
|
| Series: | Future Healthcare Journal |
| Online Access: | http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2514664525001729 |
| Tags: |
Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
|
| Summary: | Introduction: Ultrasound-guided intravenous (USG-IV) access is an essential skill, particularly for patients with difficult venous access. Studies show that USG-IV improves first-pass success rates, reduces patient discomfort and minimises complications.1,2 Despite its benefits, many clinicians lack confidence and experience with the technique. To bridge this gap, we implemented a structured teaching program aimed at improving confidence and proficiency in USG-IV cannulation. This project aimed to assess the impact of a hands-on ultrasound training program on healthcare professionals' confidence and skill in IV access. Materials and methods: We conducted two training sessions (18 September 2024 and 26 February 2025) designed for resident doctors, physician associates and medical students. Each session included: • Didactic teaching: a presentation covering ultrasound principles, machine operation and IV cannulation techniques. • Hands-on training: supervised practice using ultrasound models to develop technical skills.Participants completed pre- and post-training questionnaires using a Likert scale to measure confidence in: 1. Using ultrasound for IV access 2. Selecting the correct probe 3. Identifying anatomical structuresData were analysed using Microsoft Excel to assess changes in confidence levels. Result and discussion: Participants: 23 attendees (session 1: 11; session 2: 12). • Baseline confidence: most participants were at a beginner–novice level before training. • Survey responses: 23/23 completed pre-training surveys; 19/23 completed post-training surveys. • Key findings: confidence levels improved across all three assessed parameters. • Qualitative feedback: participants valued the hands-on practice, with many expressing increased confidence in applying USG-IV techniques in clinical settings (Fig 1).Clinical relevance and impactImproving USG-IV skills has direct benefits for patient care, including: 1. Higher success rates: reducing failed IV attempts and patient discomfort. 2. Fewer central line insertions: minimising risks of infection and complications. 3. Better resource utilisation: decreasing the number of IV cannula packs used due to improved first-pass success.Next steps • Continue training new cohorts and assess long-term confidence retention. • Compare IV cannulation success rates before and after training. • Advocate for integrating ultrasound training into standard medical education. Conclusion: This project demonstrates that targeted ultrasound training significantly improves confidence and skill in IV access. Ongoing evaluation will help refine teaching strategies and support broader implementation in clinical practice. |
|---|---|
| ISSN: | 2514-6645 |