Improving healthcare professionals’ ultrasound-guided peripheral vascular access ability utilizing self-assembled ultrasound phantoms: A prospective, observational quality improvement project

Abstract

Background: Ultrasound guidance can reduce the number of attempts to gain peripheral IV access while improving the success rate and satisfaction in patients with difficult IV access. Education and simulation are effective tools for improving the skills and knowledge related to ultrasound-guided peripheral IV access. Ultrasound phantom models allow for skill development without the risk of patient harm. Methods: Twenty-nine registered nurses and nurse practitioners were recruited for education and simulation regarding ultrasound-guided peripheral IV (USGPIV) placement. Participants completed a survey evaluating the efficacy of the phantom models in addition to pre- and post-intervention confidence, perceived competence, knowledge surveys, and a Directly Observed Procedural Skills Evaluation (DOPSE). The intervention included an educational PowerPoint and open practice session using the phantom models. Results: Statistically significant improvements were found in participants’ confidence ( p < 0.001; 95% CI: 5.287, 9.499; d = 1.31), perceived competence ( p < 0.001; 95% CI: 1.231, 2.742; d = 1.20), knowledge ( p < 0.001; 95% CI: 1.079, 2.163; d = 1.47), and skills ( p < 0.001; 95% CI: 2.499; 5.501; d = 1.29). Participants improved in maintaining needle visualization ( p < 0.001; 95% CI: 0.272, 0.9; d = 0.79) and decreasing their cannulation attempts (0.045; 95% CI: 0.013, 1.022; d = 0.48). Participants with no and novice experience saw statistically significant improvement across all categories ( p < 0.02) compared to those with intermediate, advanced, or expert experience with ultrasound. 96.5% of participants could perform ultrasound-guided peripheral IV cannulation independently or with indirect supervision following the intervention. Conclusions: At $36.52 per model, the self-assembled ultrasound phantom models provided a cost-effective and sustainable solution to teaching ultrasound-guided peripheral IV cannulations. Education and simulation for ultrasound-guided peripheral vascular access may benefit individuals with no or novice ultrasound experience.