December 2011

The purpose of this document is to provide comprehensive practice guidelines on the use of ultrasound for vascular cannulation. Recommendations are made for ultrasound-guided central venous access of the internal jugular (IJ) vein, subclavian (SC) vein, and femoral vein (FV) on the basis of the strength of the scientific evidence present in the literature. The role of ultrasound for vascular cannulation of pediatric patients is discussed specifically, and the use of ultrasound to facilitate arterial cannulation and peripheral venous access is also discussed. Recommendations are made for training, including the role of simulation.