Ultrasound Device Improves Peripheral IV Catheter Insertion

A new ultrasound-based vascular access tool aids nurses successfully insert peripheral intravenous (IV) catheters at the first try.

The EchoNous (Seattle, WA, USA) Vein is designed to provide immediate, clear images of superficial and deeper veins one to five centimeters from the skin surface. High-resolution images can be quickly acquired using presets optimized for gain and depth to find and evaluate veins in both pediatric and adult patients. The system is composed of a linear 9.3MHz, 128 element transducer probe, a dedicated tablet unit, a connecting cable, and a rolling stand.

Features include two simple on-screen touch screen controls to enable immediately visualization of veins in the center of the display; text and voice recording; data and ultrasound image outputs; Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity; automatic software updates; and wireless printing. EchoNous Vein also integrates with EchoNous UScan, an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven bladder volume measurement tool which combines machine learning with highly miniaturized ultrasound. Together, they form the EchoNous Platform.

“Time is critical, especially when patients need an infusion or antibiotic treatment, and finding the right vein can be challenging. We designed the EchoNous Vein to provide nurses with rapid, clear images of veins to directly improve patient care, satisfaction and HCAHPS scores,” said Kevin Goodwin, CEO of EchoNous. “We wanted to create an easy-to-use tool that would help to reduce failed sticks, as with each failure comes a much higher risk of vessel trauma or infections which can lead to longer stays in hospital and higher medical costs.”

“EchoNous Vein’s simple on-screen controls allows clinicians using ultrasound to clearly identify veins in the center of the display, helping to not just locate veins, but to evaluate their health and quality prior to peripheral IV placement,” said Nancy Moureau, RN, PhD, CEO of PICC Excellence (Hartwell, GA, USA). “As clinicians we know that IV insertion selecting a healthy vein for catheter placement can help to reduce the chance of post-insertional complications. To have a tool specifically designed to easily select veins and guide catheter placement is extremely valuable, as we’re always looking to improve the patient experience.”

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