Peripherally inserted central catheter service: improving practice with ultrasound
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Peripherally inserted central catheter service: improving practice with ultrasound

Clare Bidgood Oncology clinical nurse specialist, Bristol Haematology and Oncology Centre, Bristol

Intravenous therapy can be complex, often requiring central venous access. The Bristol Haematology and Oncology Centre (BHOC) has a well-established nurse-led peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) service. Over the past three years at the BHOC, the use of ultrasound-guided placement has been explored and developed as a way forward for the already well-established PICC placement service. Once competency is established, the use of ultrasound significantly increases the success rate of PICC insertions, allowing access to the basilic and brachial veins, reducing the incidence of thrombosis. This article examines how the use of ultrasound was introduced, consequently improving the success rate of PICC placements.

Cancer Nursing Practice. 7, 7, 38-42. doi: 10.7748/cnp2008.09.7.7.38.c6681

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