October starts our ultrasound guided PIV (USGPIV) insertion classes. Anyone who inserts a PIV or draws labs needs to learn this skill. We have to stop the “poke and hope” process. My lab manger used this statement once and it is so true! Improving the patients experience with this skill can easily be done. We have the tools we need to do this. Why are we always in such a hurry to do a skill? We need to slow down, assess the patient, determine what is best for them and do it! Choosing the right device, the right insertion technique and placing it in on admission is not that difficult. Here is a great article for you to review:
Implementation of an ultrasound-guided peripheral intravenous catheter program
