ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the ultrasound-guided peripheral venous cannulation technique. With appreciation of upper limb venous anatomy, using the ultrasound, readers can try to identify a reasonably sized, superficial and sufficiently straight segment of a vein. The cephalic vein in the mid-forearm is usually the best venous access option because it is not commonly used for cannulation, as it is not easily seen by the naked eye. The other recommended choices include the cephalic vein in the upper arm and the basilic vein in the upper medial arm. Ultrasound-guided venous cannulation is a skill that requires both hand-to-hand and hand-to-eye coordination. This takes time to develop and at the outset may be difficult to achieve instantly. The tip of the needle should be above the vein. Now move the ultrasound probe backwards a very short distance until the tip of the needle vanishes.
