Ultrasound Guided Peripheral IV Insertion

Study objective The purpose of this research study is to compare 2 established peripheral IV insertion techniques (traditional vs ultrasound guided) in order to develop an algorithmic approach to peripheral IV insertion. Patient characteristics, medical history and co-morbidities, in addition to a pre-insertion physical exam vein assessment, will allow for the introduction of a vein classification system and a difficult IV insertion algorithm. Selecting the optimal modality for initial IV insertion will decrease the total number of attempts, facilitate appropriate gauge and location of IV insertion, avoid central line placement, decrease IV insertion pain scores and improve patient satisfaction. Currently, ultrasound guided peripheral IV insertion is performed by the IV team at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center or a trained anesthesia provider as a rescue technique after multiple failed attempts by traditional technique. Secondary to the constraints of both trained providers and equipment resources, the cohort of difficult IV insertion patients are subjected to multiple traditional IV insertion attempts prior to escalation to ultrasound guidance and occasionally, unnecessary central line placements indicated by only poor intravenous access. Primary end point: Grade 2A vein classification cohort 2nd IV insertion attempt success rate comparison of traditional vs ultrasound guided technique, IV insertion pain scores, Patient satisfaction Secondary end points: Grade 2B and grade 3 vein classification ultrasound guided IV insertion success rate. Grade 1 and 2a vein classification 1st attempt IV insertion success rate. Grade 1 visualization 2nd attempt IV insertion success rate comparison of traditional vs ultrasound guided technique. Difficult IV insertion risk factors and associations, IV gauge and location, central line placement because of inadequate peripheral IV access