Ultrasound guidance or landmark technique for CVAD insertion?
Use ultrasound for CVAD insertion!
- Use real-time ultrasound guidance and a systematic approach for CVAD insertion in adults and children to:
- improve insertion success rates,
- reduce the number of needle punctures, and
- decrease insertion-related complication rates.
- Use ultrasound when inserting CVADs to improve vessel assessment, insertion success, and reduce insertion-related complications.
Why ultrasound is preferred
The INS Standards specifically note ultrasound is used to:
- Assess vessel size and calibre (diameter and length of IV path) and surrounding anatomy prior to insertion,
- Identify vascular anomalies (eg, occlusion or thrombosis) and locate structures to avoid (eg, valves, arteries, nerves),
- Select the most appropriate vessel based on size/shape/depth/flow/patency, catheter-to-vein ratio, respiratory variation, and operator factors.
Reference
Nickel B, Gorski L, Kleidon T, et al. Infusion Therapy Standards of Practice, 9th Edition. J Infus Nurs. 2024;47(1S Suppl 1):S1-S285.
Last Updated on: 30 April 2026
