Alliance for Vascular Access Teaching and Research - Avatar Group

24/02/2026

🎧 New blog post: Dr Grace Xu on PIVCs in the ED

Dr Grace Xu recently joined the Infusion Nurses Society podcast to discuss the hidden risks of routine IV insertion in emergency care.

We’ve shared the key highlights and why it matters for practice on the AVATAR blog.

👉 Read the blog: https://www.avatargroup.org.au/blog/new-podcast-feature--dr-grace-xu-on-pivcs-in-the-emergency-department--ins-infusion-room-
(Podcast link included in the blog)

24/02/2026

Ultrasound guidance vs landmark technique for CVAD insertion — what’s best in practice?
If you’ve ever debated this on the floor, this one’s for you.
👉 Read the full answer: https://www.avatargroup.org.au/faq---ultrasound-guidance.html

19/02/2026

📊 What Really Drives Central Line Infections? This Model Maps the Risk.

Using a causal model (DAG), researchers identified key patient and catheter factors behind CLABSI. The insights could reshape future trials and infection prevention strategies.
🔗 Read more: https://www.avatargroup.org.au/blog/mapping-the-risk--causal-model-for-central-line-infections

17/02/2026

Do CVAD insertion bundles actually reduce CLABSI?
We break down what the evidence says (and what to implement first).
👉 Read the full answer: https://www.avatargroup.org.au/faq---cvad-bundles.html

12/02/2026

👶 From Idle Lines to Informed Decisions: I-DECIDED’s Impact in Paediatrics

A structured tool made all the difference. This study shows how I-DECIDED improved nursing-led PIVC care—reducing complications, enhancing documentation, and involving families in the process.

🔗 Read more: https://www.avatargroup.org.au/blog/improving-paediatric-iv-care-with-the-i-decided-tool

09/02/2026

Patient experience of peripheral intravenous catheters: A post-discharge online survey

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2468045126000118?dgcid=author

09/02/2026

As a close-knit community, we are deeply saddened to share that our colleague and friend Anthony has been diagnosed with glioblastoma.

Anthony has spent his career caring for others and supporting those around him with kindness, generosity, and genuine compassion. Now, as he prepares to begin treatment, we have an opportunity to support Anthony and his family during this incredibly difficult time.

For those who wish to help, donations can be made via his GoFundMe page. Any contribution, big or small, will make a meaningful difference — and sharing the link is just as appreciated: https://www.gofundme.com/f/now-its-our-turn-supporting-anthony?fbclid=IwY2xjawP2N8tleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETFETEVDQVN2SlE0UzJaZ0tsc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHm7kcnNHtYqrTzwOOhIJTyrvlofc8FqJntGwECxvdCF6Wld5KhaRAgwK8x8M_aem_8zZCM0aBN_IsKrj_juX2og

Hi, my name is Sarah and for the past eight years, I am proud to say that Anthony … Sarah Wallace needs your support for Now It’s Our Turn: Supporting Anthony

05/02/2026

🧒 Can Virtual Reality Reduce Pain for Kids in the ED?

A calming ocean film might be just what’s needed. This paediatric trial shows how VR distraction significantly lowers pain and distress during PIVC insertion—especially in younger children.
🔗 Read more: https://www.avatargroup.org.au/blog/effectiveness-of-virtual-reality-on-pain-during-pivc-insertion-in-the-emergency-room

03/02/2026

Stay in the loop with upcoming vascular access events 👀
Conferences, workshops, and key dates — all in one place.

👉 Check the latest events here: https://www.avatargroup.org.au/events.html

29/01/2026

🩺 Vascular access practices for anti-cancer therapy vary widely across Europe. The PRACTICE survey reveals training gaps, inconsistent protocols, and a pressing need for standardised care pathways.

🔗 Read more: https://www.avatargroup.org.au/blog/promoting-safer-cancer-care--what-the-practice-survey-reveals-about-vad-use-across-europe

27/01/2026

Every patient deserves safe, effective, and innovative vascular access care. Your donation directly funds cutting-edge research that reduces complications like infections and blockages, supports clinicians with advanced resources, and drives life-saving medical breakthroughs.

With 100% of your contribution going to research—no admin fees—every dollar makes a difference. Be a part of healthcare innovation and help us improve patient outcomes worldwide.

Donate today: https://www.avatargroup.org.au/donate-now.html

22/01/2026

This Queensland-based feasibility trial explored whether vasopressors can be safely delivered via peripheral IVs instead of early central line insertion in ICU patients.

🔗 Read more: https://www.avatargroup.org.au/blog/peripheral-vs-central-access-for-vasopressors--what-did-the-vipca-trial-find-