Ultrasound-Guided Central Venous Access

The ability to establish central venous access (CVA) efficiently is a fundamental skill for emergency physicians. CVA is essential for hemodynamic monitoring, volume resuscitation, and the delivery of vasoactive drugs. It is important in the management of shock and other conditions, such as renal failure and complete heart block, because it contributes to temporizing and life-saving therapies. The evidence that supports the applicability of the techniques and risk reduction for patients is almost limitless and has intensified attention on the capacity for ultrasound to improve patient care in the ED.

In this activity, we provide the background and literature to support the use of ultrasound guidance to place central venous catheters. We will explain the technique of ultrasound-guided CVA and present the most commonly utilized approaches using both videos and images. In addition, we will describe the benefits and areas of risk reduction when ultrasound guidance is used to guide procedures. After completing this activity, practitioners/members of the healthcare team should be able to: summarize the benefits for placement of central venous catheters under ultrasound guidance; list the different approaches to ultrasound-guided central venous access; describe the technical aspects of performing ultrasound-guided central venous access; and outline the pitfalls commonly associated with placing central lines under ultrasound guidance.

Credit & MOC Details

Credit information is provided by the course provider. We recommend confirming credit eligibility with the provider or your licensing board before starting the activity.

Target Specialties

Case-based learning
includes On-demand / recorded video
Credit · Up to 2 credits
Fee · varies

Released

Apr 7, 2025
Last day to claim credit

Apr 7, 2028 1 year left

Ultrasound-Guided Central Venous Access

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