Using Agitated Saline and Point-of-Care Ultrasound to Confirm Central Venous Catheter Placement: A Quality Improvement Project by Advanced Practice Providers

Central lines placed in the internal jugular or subclavian vein are common among critically ill patients. A chest x-ray serves as the confirmation method in many institutions. However, ultrasound with agitated saline has been proven an effective, faster, and safer alternative. Visualizing microbubbles in the right atrium within 2 seconds can confirm correct placement. This quality improvement project describes the training and competency evaluation of advanced practice providers in using agitated saline with point-of-care ultrasound to confirm central venous catheter placement. Sharing our experience and data may encourage others to implement similar quality improvement efforts.

Duke Scholars

Author Cherylee Wai Jun Chang Neurology, Neurocritical Care

Author Benjamin Smallheer School of Nursing