Use of AccuVein AV400 for identification of probable RICH

Feasibility of 830 nm laser imaging for vein localization in dark skin tissue-mimicking phantoms

Accessing blood vessels by medical professionals has been a challenge in healthcare centers worldwide. The main objective of this work is to investigate the localization of blood vessels in dark skin based on near infrared laser imaging. An 830 nm diode laser was used as a light source to irradiate dark skin mimicking optical phantoms. Phantoms were constructed to simulate dark skin with embedded polymer tubes filled with human blood to mimic subcutaneous veins. Appropriate image processing techniques were also used to enhance the detection and depth resolved differentiation of the vein phantoms. Results show that a linear regression model can represent the relation between the grey level in subcutaneous vein images and the depth of vessels down to 3 mm or deeper (n = 15, R² = 0.88, P < 0.001). The effect of laser power on the system performance is also discussed. Analysis of the collected images demonstrates the feasibility of 830 nm laser imaging for differentiating vein depths under dark skin surface. The proposed method would enhance the localization of invisible subcutaneous veins. This, in turn, would further improve the success rate of related medical procedures such as blood sampling, drawing, in the dark skin population.

Does the use of infrared technology (AccuVein AV-500®) for Peripheral Intravenous Cannulation (PIVC) increase the success rate in nursing students? A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

PIVC is one of the essential procedures of modern medicine, and is one of the most widely used and important treatments in the clinical setting. Nevertheless, it is one of the most difficult skills to teach in nursing education, and it is the skill which causes the most anxiety in nursing students.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to examine the effect of the teaching method using infrared technology on PIVC success, duration, and the level of psychomotor skills and knowledge in the acquisition of PIVC skills in nursing students.

METHODS

This was a pre-test post-test randomized experimental study with a control group. The research was conducted in the Skills and Simulation Laboratory of a Nursing Faculty of a university between December 2019 and February 2020 to examine the effects of teaching PIVC measurement via infrared light on students' success rate. A theory lesson on PIVC followed 15 days later by laboratory practical was carried out with all of the students included in the study. The PIVC Knowledge Evaluation Form as a pre-test. The researchers completed the PIVC Skills Performance Test from observation during the application of the checklist. Immediately after the procedure, the PIVC Knowledge Evaluation Form was applied as a post-test.

RESULTS

The procedure success rate of the experimental group was 90%, and that of the control group was 46%. Comparing PIVC skill scores between the groups, the difference was found to be statistically significant (Z = -2.741; p < 0.05). The groups' PIVC knowledge levels increased in a similar way.

CONCLUSION

Teaching with infrared technology contributes more to students' success in PIVC skills than does standard teaching. Both methods were effective in developing knowledge of PIVC.

Infrared augmented reality device versus standard procedure for peripheral venous catheterisation in children less than 3 years old: A quasi-experimental cluster randomised controlled trial

AIM AND OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to evaluate the AccuVeinAV400® viewing device for peripheral venous catheter insertion in children on the first try.

BACKGROUND

Inserting a peripheral venous catheter is the most frequent invasive procedure carried out by healthcare professionals in hospitalised children. Several attempts are sometimes necessary, and veins can be damaged.

DESIGN

A quasi-experimental cluster randomised controlled trial based on the CONSORT 2010 guidelines.

METHODS

This randomised study comparing standard practice to the use of AccuVein400^® was carried out on children who were less than 3 years old, with difficult intravenous access (DIVA Score), hospitalised in three paediatric units and who needed cannulation.

RESULT

A total of 304 children were included (156 in the AccuVein arm and 148 in the standard arm). There was no significant difference between AccuVein and standard groups in age (respectively, 2.5 ± 0.9 years vs. 2.5 ± 0.8), or mean DIVA score (respectively 5.9 ± 1.3 vs. 5.5 ± 1.2). The success of cannulation on the first attempt was 40.38% in the AccuVein arm vs. 41.2% in the standard arm (p = .6). The caregiver's assessment of pain on the Face Legs Activity Cry Consolability scale was 4.8 ± 0.2 in the AccuVein arm vs. 5.0 ± 0.2 (p = .4).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of AccuVein400® did not lead to greater success in intravenous insertion at the first attempt in children under 3 years of age with difficult intravenous access.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

This device can therefore be used according to the healthcare professionals' situation and needs. It is widely used in paediatric wards, and our study shows that it offers a support tool that reassures healthcare professionals and helps validate their choice of vein easiest to catheterise.