Cost-effectiveness of introducing a nursing-based programme of ultrasound-guided peripheral venous access in a regional teaching hospital.

AIM: To analyse the cost-effectiveness of care provided to patients in need of peripheral venous access by comparing the traditional approach with a nurse-based ultrasound-guided programme.

BACKGROUND: Letting nurses insert ultrasound-guided catheters is a promising cost-saving approach, but there are few data available to document the efficiency of this type of programme.

METHOD: A cost-efficiency evaluative research design was used. Data were collected over a 6-year timeframe, before and after the implementation of the nurse-based programme.

RESULTS: Results show that the evaluation conducted by nurses ensures the right choice of catheter for each patient based on the patient's needs, which decreases costs. The programme also shortens the waiting period between consultation and insertion of the catheter, which reduces costs related to prolonged hospitalisation.

CONCLUSION: The nurse-based programme puts nurses' skills to good use as part of a new practice and helps enhance the efficiency of care and services provided to patients.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT: In addition to the significant cost savings this programme offers, the evaluation leads to an effective use of resources while ensuring optimal care.