A-DIVA Score and the Implementation of the Use of Ultrasound-Guided Peripheral Intravenous Access in the Emergency Department: A Brief Literature Review

Background: Peripheral intravenous (PIV) access is performed daily in the emergency department (ED). Difficult to access patients receive multiple intravenous attempts prior to successful cannulation. USGPIVA is a noninvasive technique to improve successful cannulation with the first attempt on a difficult to access patient. Use of the A-DIVA scoring method may determine difficult access patients prior to cannulation attempts. Purpose: The purpose of this literature review was to examine A-DIVA score and the implementation of the use of ultrasound-guided peripheral intravenous access in the emergency department. Method: A systematic review of USGIV was completed of the following databases: OVID, Current Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), PubMed, EBSCO host, and Google Scholar. Conclusion: A gap existed in the use of USGPIV in the ED. Therefore, the application of an A-DIVA score to implement USGPIV access may be beneficial. The A-DIVA prediction tool may improve the success rate of peripheral vascular access in adults rated to have difficult vascular access. Research studies on this important topic are recommended.