[Improving the Success Rate of Difficult Peripheral Intravenous Cannulation Performed by Emergency Nurses]

Peripheral intravenous cannulation (PIVC) is a common invasive procedure conducted in clinical settings. However, patient-related conditions often increase the difficulty of successful cannulation. Between April and June 2023, 25 PIVC- related complaints were reported in the emergency department of our hospital, with 72% involving multiple failed attempts. An initial analysis revealed a low success rate (53.5%) for difficult PIVC, with primary contributing factors including a lack of standardized protocols, insufficient assistive tools, poor lighting, and limited hands-on experience among novice nurses.

This project was planned and implemented to increase the success rate for difficult PIVC by emergency nurses to above 72.5%.

The improvement strategies included developing a pocket-sized reminder card incorporating the "HANDS" assessment tool, forming a vascular access team, establishing standardized procedures, conducting ultrasound workshops, upgrading lighting, and implementing a training program for new staff.

After implementation, the success rate of difficult PIVC among emergency nurses increased from 53.5% to 75.3%, achieving the project goal.

Implementing this project effectively improved the success rate for difficult PIVC among emergency nurses, enhanced patient safety and care quality, and strengthened nursing competence.