Single v Dual-Operator Ultrasound Technique for Peripheral Vascular Access in the Emergency Department

Overview

This is a randomized controlled trial comparing the success of US guided peripheral IV placement between single vs dual-operator technique among a convenience sample of patients with moderate or difficult vascular access in a tertiary care Emergency Department.

Gaining intravenous (IV) access is a common and important procedure in the emergency department (ED). IV access is needed to deliver drugs, enable fluid resuscitation and sample blood, and delays in gaining access can lead to patient harm. Ultrasound (US) is a commonly used tool in the ED, and the utility of ultrasound in the placement of IVs in patients with difficult access has been well described. This study aims to further guide the use of this evidence based tool by ED Registered Nurses. The focus will be comparing single-operator technique, in which the same provider manipulates the ultrasound probe while simultaneously placing the IV, to a dual-operator technique whereby a second provider manipulates the probe. Any measured advantage has implications in guiding education and practice, as well as informing future ED policy.

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Eligibility

Outcomes

Central Contacts