Application of Anatomical Knowledge in Ultrasound-Guided Vascular Access Among Emergency Nurses in University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital

Ultrasound-guided vascular access has markedly improved the safety and success rate of central venous catheterisation and peripheral venous cannulation in emergency and critical care settings. Its effective application depends on a thorough understanding of vascular topography, surrounding anatomical structures, and needle trajectory in relation to adjacent neurovascular bundles. Despite the clinical relevance of this skill, there has been limited formal evaluation of anatomical knowledge levels among emergency nursing staff at Nigerian teaching hospitals. This study aims to assess the level of anatomical knowledge applied in ultrasound-guided vascular access procedures among emergency nurses at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Rivers State, South South Nigeria. A validated questionnaire tool combined with an objective skills assessment station will be used to evaluate theoretical anatomical knowledge and practical procedural competence. Data will be compared across years of experience and training levels. Gaps between knowledge and practice will be identified, and a targeted anatomical refresher curriculum will be designed in response to the findings. The study anticipates producing evidence-based recommendations for integrating applied anatomy instruction into continuing professional development programmes for emergency nurses at tertiary health facilities in Rivers State.

Keywords: ultrasound-guided access, vascular anatomy, emergency nursing, applied anatomy, Port Harcourt