Training Program for Ultrasound-Guided Intravenous Catheter Insertion.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Point-of-Care Ultrasound
• Vascular Access

Background:

• Ultrasound guidance for peripheral intravenous (USGPIV) catheter insertion is increasingly available in diverse healthcare settings.
• Technical proficiency in USGPIV can be acquired through focused training, even for individuals with limited prior medical experience.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance clinicians' knowledge, confidence, and skills in performing USGPIV catheter insertions.
• To evaluate the impact of an evidence-based training program on USGPIV utilization at Naval Hospital Jacksonville.

Main Methods:

• A literature review informed the development of an USGPIV training program.
• Trainee knowledge and confidence were assessed pre- and post-training.
• Catheter placement attempts and ultrasound utilization rates were recorded before and after the intervention.

Main Results:

• USGPIV technique utilization increased by 18.7% post-training (50 of 267 cases vs. 0 of 252).
• Mean knowledge scores significantly improved from 60% to 80% (P < .001).
• Mean self-reported skill confidence scores also showed significant improvement (P < .001).

Conclusions:

• The USGPIV training program effectively improved healthcare providers' knowledge and confidence in performing the procedure.
• Implementation of the training program led to a significant increase in the use of USGPIV for peripheral intravenous catheter placement.
• Enhanced USGPIV skills are crucial for providing timely and effective patient care, especially in critical situations.