Ultrasound-guided peripheral vascular access in children

Peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) insertion is a common yet often challenging procedure in children. Up to 65% of first-attempt insertions fail, with particularly low success rates observed in children younger than two years. Approximately 28% of children require three or more attempts for successful placement. Around 38% of PIVCs fail before the completion of therapy. The leading causes of failure include infiltration, occlusion, phlebitis, and dislodgement of the catheter. These complications increase pain and distress in children, delay treatment, and consume staff time.