What is this study about? This study is comparing two different methods nurses use to place an intravenous (IV) drip, which is needed for many cancer treatments.
Traditional method: The nurse finds a vein by touch and sight.
Ultrasound-guided method: The nurse uses a small, handheld ultrasound scanner to see the vein under the skin to help guide the needle.
Why is it important? Sometimes it can take more than one attempt to get an IV drip in place, which can be uncomfortable. For cancer patients, whose veins can be more fragile, this is a common challenge. This research will help us find out if using ultrasound helps get the IV in successfully on the first try more often, which can make the treatment experience better.
What does participation involve? If you choose to take part, you will be randomly assigned (like a coin toss) to have your IV placed with either the traditional method or the ultrasound method. The research team will then collect some information about the IV placement. Your participation is entirely voluntary and will not affect your standard medical care.
None
Patients younger than 18 years.
Parallel
Ultrasound-Guided Peripheral Intravenous Catheter Insertion
Other interventionIn this arm, PIVC insertion is performed by oncology nurses who have completed a structured ultrasound training program. Nurses use real-time ultrasound imaging to identify and select a suitable vein, guide the advancement of the catheter, and confirm placement. This method contrasts with the standard touch-and-feel approach by incorporating ultrasound technology and specialized nurse training to improve first-time insertion success and reduce complications.
Traditional Peripheral Intravenous Catheter Insertion
Other interventionPIVC insertion performed by oncology nurses using the conventional touch-and-feel landmark technique, relying on visual inspection and palpation of veins. Represents current standard clinical practice in oncology.
First-time insertion success (FTIS) of peripheral intravenous catheter
Proportion of participants with successful peripheral intravenous catheter placement on the first skin-puncture attempt. Success is defined as successful cannulation on the first needle puncture with confirmation of a functioning PIVC by (1) visible/aspirable blood return and (2) ability to flush and infuse a standard 10 mL saline bolus without resistance or infiltration. The outcome is recorded as a binary variable (Yes/No) on the case report form by the treating/research nurse immediately after the procedure and used to calculate the percentage of FTIS per arm.
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