DIVA Workshops

Following two successful years of workshops delivered across Australia, the Cancer Nurses Society of Australia (CNSA) is now inviting Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from organisations interested in hosting a Difficult Venous Access (DIVA) Workshop in 2026.

These workshops are delivered in collaboration with the University of Wollongong and Associate Professor Evan Alexandrou, Clinical Nurse Consultant and leading educator in vascular access. The program is based on the CNSA Evidence-Based Vascular Access Guidelines and supports implementation of Section 2: Vessel Health and Preservation and Patients with Difficult Intravenous Access, including the Management Pathway for PIVC Insertion incorporating DIVA.

About the Workshop

The Difficult Venous Access Workshop: Principles and Practice microcredential is a blended learning program designed to strengthen nurses’ capability and confidence in vascular access, especially in cancer care settings.

Participants gain a microcredential upon completion, delivered in two parts:

Part 1: Online Learning

  • Five self-paced, interactive modules introducing the principles of vessel health, ultrasound physics, and device selection.

Part 2: In-Person Practical Workshop

  • A full-day, hands-on workshop facilitated by vascular access experts.
  • Participants gain practical experience with ultrasound-guided peripheral IV cannulation using simulated models and receive direct feedback on technique and competency.
Learning Outcomes

Attending the course will allow participants to:

  • Acquire advanced skills in ultrasound-guided peripheral cannulation, improving patient outcomes and reducing complications.

  • Share knowledge and train colleagues within their unit, fostering a culture of continuous learning and skill enhancement.

  • Contribute to the implementation of evidence-based practices in vascular access, aligning with national clinical care standards.

Eligibility and Key Details

CNSA is now seeking EOIs from hospitals, health services, and organisations nationally to host a DIVA workshop in 2026. Priority will be given to regional and rural areas, to ensure equitable access to high-quality, hands-on training for nurses across Australia.

Important information:

  • Each workshop must have a minimum of 10 and maximum of 12 participants.
  • Organisations may invite nurses from other services or units to fill places.
  • A suitable training room and basic AV setup must be provided (all clinical equipment will be supplied).
  • Thanks to industry sponsorship, the participant cost will be subsidised to $250–$300 per person (normally $600).
Why Participate?

Participants consistently report improvements in first-attempt cannulation success rates, clinical confidence, and team capability. By hosting a workshop, your organisation contributes to a stronger, more capable nursing workforce and better patient outcomes through improved vascular access practices.

Submit Your Expression of Interest

Expressions of Interest are now open. If your organisation would like to host a workshop in 2026, please click here to submit your EOI. For more information, contact Jemma Still, CNSA CEO, via [email protected].