Assessment of Ultrasound Utilization for Peripheral Venous Access in Nursing Practices. An observational study from an Italian University Hospital

Valentina Cerrone, Oncology Unit; “San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d’Aragona” University Hospital, Salerno, ItalyFollow
Vincenzo Andretta, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, SA, Italy
Angela Prendin, Palliative Care and Antalgic Therapy/Pediatric Hospice; University Hospital of Padua, Padua, Italy
Noemi Romano, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, SA, Italy
Veronica Strini, Clinical Research Unit; University Hospital of Padua, Padua, Italy
Luigi Fortino, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, SA, Italy
Biagio Santella, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, SA, Italy
Giovanni Boccia, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, SA, Italy

Abstract

Background: Establishing peripheral intravenous access can be challenging, often resulting in care delays, increased complications, and higher healthcare costs. While ultrasound-guided techniques have shown potential in improving success rates and reducing complications, their utilization by nurses varies significantly. Aim: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and utilization of ultrasound for difficult peripheral venous access among nurses at an Italian university hospital. Methods: Data were collected over six months from 64 nurses across various units. The study assessed the prevalence of ultrasound training, additional education, and the frequency of ultrasound use for venipuncture and tip navigation. Results: Of the 64 nurses, 60.9% had received prior ultrasound training, with 50% undergoing further education. Despite this, only 50% regularly used ultrasound for venipuncture, and a mere 26.6% employed it for tip navigation. Conclusion: Enhanced education and training are essential for increasing the utilization of ultrasound techniques among nurses. This, in turn, can optimize patient outcomes and enhance safety in clinical settings.

Recommended Citation

Cerrone, Valentina; Andretta, Vincenzo; Prendin, Angela; Romano, Noemi; Strini, Veronica; Fortino, Luigi; Santella, Biagio; and Boccia, Giovanni (2024) "Assessment of Ultrasound Utilization for Peripheral Venous Access in Nursing Practices. An observational study from an Italian University Hospital," Translational Medicine @ UniSa: Vol. 26 : Iss. 1 , Article 7.
Available at: https://doi.org/10.37825/2239-9747.1053