Improving patient care through new ultrasound-guided IV access initiative
To improve care at North Shore and Waitākere Hospitals, Well Foundation is raising funds for six portable ultrasound machines.
The machines will help support a new ultrasound-guided IV access training program, which is equipping doctors, nurses and midwives with the skills needed to locate veins more quickly and accurately.
Ultrasound-guided IV access is especially beneficial for children, older patients, cancer patients and those with difficult-to-find veins, who can often experience multiple painful attempts before a vein is successfully located.
Helping clinicians deliver faster, safer and less painful care
What is the training initiative?
The hospital-funded ultrasound-guided intravenous access initiative trains doctors, nurses and midwives to use portable ultrasound technology to locate difficult veins more quickly and accurately. To date, 10 courses have trained 125 medical professionals, including 82 doctors and 43 nurses and midwives.
What equipment is still needed?
It’s essential that newly trained staff have access to an ultrasound machine whenever one is needed to help patients experience the very best care. That’s why Well Foundation is seeking community support to raise funds for six portable ultrasound machines to supplement the three existing machines.
Why are the new machines so important?
Currently, patients with difficult-to-find veins often wait for a specialist clinician and an ultrasound machine to become available before treatment can begin. The training initiative and the new ultrasound machines will help reduce delays, minimise repeated painful attempts and improve the patient experience.
How can you help?
Funding has already been secured for one machine. Your support can help fund the remaining five machines. To find out more about how you can help, please contact Heidi Wilde, Director of Fundraising, Partnerships & Communications at Well Foundation at heidi@wellfoundation.org.nz.