This experiment tried to answer the question of clinicians unfamiliar with the use of ultrasound for vascular cannulation who may be able to learn and practice the skill of ultrasound-guided cannulation in a simulation model and are subsequently able to apply this skill in the clinical setting. Portable ultrasound devices are increasingly available in clinical areas because they are more affordable today than in the past, but clinicians need to be trained on how to use them successfully. Novices can learn the technique of ultrasound-guided cannulation fast when they have the opportunity to train on simulation models and make multiple attempts before they apply the same technique in their clinical setting.
The use of ultrasound during the cannulation has the advantage of providing information about the depth, size, and direction of muscular structure before the actual cannulation occurs. Further, it provides a clear vision of the needle tip being observable during the cannulation process. We are planning on performing a survey amongst senior clinicians to determine their views and perspectives on the use of this technique and what kind of barriers in the clinical space may exist.
