Educational programs for implementing ultrasound guided peripheral intravenous catheter insertion in emergency departments: A systematic integrative literature review

Abstract

Background: Ultrasound-guided peripheral intravenous catheter insertion has been identified as an effective method to improve the success rate of cannulation, thereby improving patient experience. However, learning this new skill is complex, and involves training clinicians from a variety of backgrounds. The aim of this study was to appraise and compare literature on educational methods in the emergency setting used to support ultrasound guided peripheral intravenous catheter insertion by different clinicians, and how effective these current methods are.; Review Methods: A systematic integrative review was undertaken using Whittemore and Knafl's five stage approach. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool was used to assess the quality of the studies.; Results: Forty-five studies met the inclusion criteria, with five themes identified. These were: the variety of educational methods and approaches; the effectiveness of the different educational methods; barriers and facilitators of education; clinician competency assessments and pathways; clinician confidence assessment and pathways.; Conclusions: This review demonstrates that a variety of educational methods are being used in successfully training emergency department clinicians in using ultrasound guidance for peripheral intravenous catheter insertion. Furthermore, this training has resulted in safer and more effective vascular access. However, it is evident that there is a lack of consistency of formalised education programs available. A standardised formal education program and increased availability of ultrasound machines in the emergency department will ensure consistent practices are maintained, retained, therefore leading to safer practice as well as more satisfied patients.; Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest RMW reports investigator-initiated research grants provided to Griffith University from vascular access product manufacturer Becton Dickinson, unrelated to this project. NM reports investigator-initiated research grants and speaker fees provided to Griffith University from vascular access product manufacturers (Becton Dickinson, 3 M, Eloquest Healthcare and Cardinal Health); and a consultancy payment for expert advice from Becton Dickinson, unrelated to the current project. AJU reports investigator-initiated research grants and speaker fees provided to her former employer (Griffith University) from vascular access product manufacturers (Becton Dickinson, 3 M and Cardinal Health) unrelated to the current project. (Copyright © 2023 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)