MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – The Vascular Access Team at WVU Medicine J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital recently reached a 100 percent certification rate for its members. This certification, given by the Vascular Access Certification Corporation, is the standardized measure of the basic knowledge, skills, and abilities expected of professionals working in vascular access.

Vascular access specialists place vascular access devices, such as peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC), internal jugular catheters, midline catheters, and ultrasound guided peripheral IVs for neonatal through adult patients with varying levels of infusion needs. These sites allow the patient to receive infusions without the need for multiple needle sticks, preserving venous function. 

“Our team is highly skilled and is an incredible resource not only here in Morgantown but across the System,” John Gotses, R.N., B.S.N., Ruby Memorial Hospital Nursing Support Services manager, said. “They help ensure we are operating at the highest standard of care and frequently share their knowledge on the best way to provide care for our patients.”

This landmark was reached shortly before the Oct. 5 recognition of Vascular Access Specialty Day, which recognizes the work of vascular access specialists who provide exceptional vascular access insertion, care, and maintenance with the objective of promoting an optimal, proactive, and intentional approach to preserve vasculature, improve clinical outcomes, enhance patient safety, and educate all stakeholders.