Vascular access
a training objective is to mirror the complexities of ward cannulation and central access decision-making and trouble-shooting. Sean’s experience highlights the appetite for proper training and the impact it can have. “Taking bloods and gaining vascular access in
children and babies are daily occurrences that require skill, practice and counselling for the patient and parents,” he says. “The ultimate aim is to alleviate stress with sound decision-making, longer lasting lines, and an improved patient and clinician experience. Effective training means less trauma and safer care, and there is a worrying lack of formal training.” Key to this, says Sean, is bringing together
clinicians from different backgrounds and experience levels, creating a collaborative learning environment where paediatricians, anaesthetists, surgeons, and advanced care professionals can share knowledge and techniques. Each discipline brings different expertise - whether it’s ultrasound proficiency, cannulation skills or experience in managing distressed families. This diversity means the knowledge doesn’t stop in the classroom. It spreads across departments and back into frontline practice. “Every successful first attempt is a win for
the child, the family and the clinical team. That’s what drives me, and why training matters.”
Universal UGVA as the gold standard The consensus is clear: UGVA should be available to all patient groups — DIVA, paediatrics,
geriatrics, and those with complex venous histories, such as intravenous drug users. Making this a reality requires: l Clear local policy to default to UGVA for DIVA and high-risk cohorts: define escalation steps and device selection criteria.
l Protected training time: Build ultrasound skills into induction, rotation curricula, and competency frameworks; support mentorship and supervised lists.
l Accessible equipment: Ensure portable devices are available on wards, ED, ICU and community services; rationalise procurement to match demand.
l Vessel preservation mindset: Reduce unnecessary punctures and early failure; choose devices based on dwell time, therapy and vessel status.
Ian observes: “Some UK regions are further along than others. I’ve experienced pockets of excellence where vascular access teams are established, and best practice is visible. The next step is consistent, system-wide adoption, so every patient experiences the benefits routinely, rather than by exception. We have a long way to go to make this a reality.”
A commitment to education and innovation Vygon continues to support Trusts with clinical education, offering access to technology that fits frontline realities. Through Campus Vygon, clinicians can access resources, webinars and courses focused on best practice, vessel
preservation, and ultrasoundguided techniques – helping to bridge training gaps and accelerate confident adoption. David concludes: “Ultrasound guidance is
more than a technique; it represents a best- practice standard for vascular access – one that delivers less pain, faster treatment, higher success rates, and greater efficiency for the NHS. With practical training, accessible devices, and clear pathways, Trusts can make UGVA the norm. Doing so will protect vessels, improve patient experience, and free clinicians to focus on the most vital part of their work, which is delivering high-quality care.”
CSJ
SCAN ME
For more information on courses on Difficult Vascular Access in Children, please scan the QR code.
Ian Tydeman
Ian is a Clinical Nurse Specialist at Vygon UK within the vascular management team and has over two decades of frontline experience within the NHS including a background in critical care, vascular access, and OPAT services. Ian is passionate about developing education
and best practice to NHS teams and helping to join the dots between Trusts and share best practice nationwide.
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www.clinicalservicesjournal.com I March 2026
David Wynne
David is a Clinical Nurse Specialist at Vygon UK, who also works within the vascular management team. During his two decades of hands-on experience in nursing and vascular accesses within the NHS, he also established and led a specialist vascular access service at Wirral University Teaching Hospitals. His passion lies in education and delivering services that address healthcare challenges and improve patient care.
Sean O’Donnell
Sean is a paediatric surgery registrar, currently practicing at Leeds General Infirmary, with a passion for improving vascular access experience in children using newer techniques, lines, and equipment. Sean is also a founding member of the Difficult Vascular Access in Children course that helps to train clinicians on practical IV skills for paediatric care.
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