Development of competencies for the use of bedside ultrasound for assessment and cannulation of hemodialysis vascular access.

Use of ultrasound for hemodialysis vascular access assessment and real-time cannulation requires specialized training. In order to obtain basic hand-eye coordination, theoretical sessions on ultrasound use, as well as practical sessions using phantom models are recommended prior to its use in the clinical setting with patients. New users of this technology need to consider that all competencies can be achieved with daily use of ultrasound at the bedside. It takes approximately 500 guided cannulations to achieve the highest level of competency described above.