We describe a novel technique for establishing vascular access in Emergency Department (ED) patients: the placement of a standard catheter-over-needle device into the internal jugular vein using real-time ultrasound guidance. We present a series of patients for whom this procedure was performed after other attempts at vascular access were unsuccessful. In all cases, the procedure was performed quickly and without complications.
Although further study of this technique is required, we believe this procedure may be a valuable option for ED patients requiring rapid vascular access.