Infrared augmented reality device versus standard procedure for peripheral venous catheterisation in children less than 3 years old: A quasi-experimental cluster randomised controlled trial

Aim and objective The objective of this study was to evaluate the AccuVeinAV400 (R) viewing device for peripheral venous catheter insertion in children on the first try. Background Inserting a peripheral venous catheter is the most frequent invasive procedure carried out by healthcare professionals in hospitalised children. Several attempts are sometimes necessary, and veins can be damaged. Design A quasi-experimental cluster randomised controlled trial based on the CONSORT 2010 guidelines. Methods This randomised study comparing standard practice to the use of AccuVein400(R) was carried out on children who were less than 3 years old, with difficult intravenous access (DIVA Score), hospitalised in three paediatric units and who needed cannulation. Result A total of 304 children were included (156 in the AccuVein arm and 148 in the standard arm). There was no significant difference between AccuVein and standard groups in age (respectively, 2.5 +/- 0.9 years vs. 2.5 +/- 0.8), or mean DIVA score (respectively 5.9 +/- 1.3 vs. 5.5 +/- 1.2). The success of cannulation on the first attempt was 40.38% in the AccuVein arm vs. 41.2% in the standard arm (p = .6). The caregiver's assessment of pain on the Face Legs Activity Cry Consolability scale was 4.8 +/- 0.2 in the AccuVein arm vs. 5.0 +/- 0.2 (p = .4). Conclusions The use of AccuVein400 (R) did not lead to greater success in intravenous insertion at the first attempt in children under 3 years of age with difficult intravenous access. Relevance to clinical practice This device can therefore be used according to the healthcare professionals' situation and needs. It is widely used in paediatric wards, and our study shows that it offers a support tool that reassures healthcare professionals and helps validate their choice of vein easiest to catheterise.