Suggestions for ultrasound in ED

[Reebsnrn]

I'm a L&D nurse gone ED nurse (I know...not the best transition, but it's done and over with thank God!), and have played with the USG machine on L&D. I can't identify specific anatomy, but can see a beating heart and figure out fingers, toes, head and occasionally attempt to measure the cervix. In the ED, this has been useful for those presenting at gestational ages that aren't condusive to easy dopplered FHTs. I read that some of you are using the USG for IV initiation and got really interested. I know there are long term certifications, but what about some of those contact hrs for RN's with USG. I would love to try to take a formal class, but in the meantime, are there any suggestions on weekend inservices or anything of that nature? Also, how is the USG for help with the IV initiations going? Any suggestions? Thanks a bunch in advance-ree

[Reebsnrn]

I'm a L&D nurse gone ED nurse (I know...not the best transition, but it's done and over with thank God!), and have played with the USG machine on L&D. I can't identify specific anatomy, but can see a beating heart and figure out fingers, toes, head and occasionally attempt to measure the cervix. In the ED, this has been useful for those presenting at gestational ages that aren't condusive to easy dopplered FHTs. I read that some of you are using the USG for IV initiation and got really interested. I know there are long term certifications, but what about some of those contact hrs for RN's with USG. I would love to try to take a formal class, but in the meantime, are there any suggestions on weekend inservices or anything of that nature? Also, how is the USG for help with the IV initiations going? Any suggestions? Thanks a bunch in advance-ree

[mommatrauma, RN]

I'm a L&D nurse gone ED nurse (I know...not the best transition, but it's done and over with thank God!), and have played with the USG machine on L&D. I can't identify specific anatomy, but can see a beating heart and figure out fingers, toes, head and occasionally attempt to measure the cervix. In the ED, this has been useful for those presenting at gestational ages that aren't condusive to easy dopplered FHTs. I read that some of you are using the USG for IV initiation and got really interested. I know there are long term certifications, but what about some of those contact hrs for RN's with USG. I would love to try to take a formal class, but in the meantime, are there any suggestions on weekend inservices or anything of that nature? Also, how is the USG for help with the IV initiations going? Any suggestions? Thanks a bunch in advance-ree

I've done USG w/the help of an MD to start IV lines, but that is the extent of it...I never heard of any certifications or classes for nurses on it...I usually get the doc to hold the probe for me and when the vein is identified...i stick...we reserve this for our really hard cases...that maybe CVP's aren't an option...