Using Ultrasound-guided PIV Insertion in the Pediatric Population to Decrease Insertion Attempts

Abstract

Intravenous (IV) therapy using a peripheral IV (PIV) in children is a medical intervention frequently used in hospitals. Current evidence supports ultrasound-guided PIV placement in the adult patient population. The purpose of this study was to implement an evidence-based practice approach to determine if ultrasound-guided IV insertion decreased the number of attempts for successful cannulation and improved staff and patient satisfaction with the treatment in the pediatric inpatient population. Data collection was conducted in a pediatric medical surgical unit and pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). After the implementation of ultrasound-guided IV insertion, the average number of attempts necessary for successful insertion decreased from 2 to 1.37. Findings support the integration of ultrasound-guided IV insertion into the standard of care on pediatric medical surgical units and PICUs.