Ultrasound Guided Peripheral Intravenous Catheterization in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit.

Catheterizations will be performed by one of three pediatric intensivists with vast experience in both traditional and US guided DNTP techniques for peripheral intravenous access. The operator will be allowed to independently choose which peripheral vein to cannulate. If necessary, patients will be given supplemental dose of sedation and analgesia in addition to the already given continuous infusions for invasive mechanical ventilation. Before puncture, the limb will be taped and maintained in an optimal position. A tourniquet will be placed proximal to the planned cannulation site. The site of puncture will be disinfected with Chlorhexidine gluconate 0.5% w/v, Alcohol 70% v/v. The choice of catheter will be left to the discretion of the operator. Available PIV cannulas include : 14 GA, 2X45 mm; 17 GA, 1.4X45 mm; 18 GA 1.2X45 mm; 20 GA 1X32mm BD Venflon™ and 24 GA, 0.7X19 mm; 26 GA 0.6X19 mm BD Neoflon™ (Becton Dickinson Infusion Therapy AB, Helsingborg, Sweden).