Venous Access:
External Jugular
Clinical Indications:
- External jugular vein cannulation is indicated in a critically ill patient
- ≥ 12 years of age who requires intravenous access for fluid or medication administration and in whom an extremity vein is not obtainable.
- External jugular cannulation can be attempted initially in life threatening events where no obvious peripheral site is noted.
Procedure:
- Place the patient in a supine head down position. This helps distend the vein and prevents air embolism.
- Turn the patient’s head toward the opposite side if no risk of cervical injury exists.
- Prep the site as per peripheral IV site.
- Align the catheter with the vein and aim toward the same side shoulder.
- “Tourniqueting” the vein lightly with one finger above the clavicle, puncture the vein midway between the angle of the jaw and the clavicle and cannulate the vein in the usual method.
- Attach the IV and secure the catheter avoiding circumferential dressing or taping.
- Document the procedure, time, and result (success) on/with the patient care report (PCR).