Jennifer Sullivan, RN, VA-BC

Registered Nurse
Vascular Access Nurse / Clinical Educator
Golisano Children’s Hospital at the University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY 40536

Jennifer Sullivan, RN, VA-BC, is a highly experienced pediatric nurse specializing in vascular access at Kentucky Children’s Hospital, part of the University of Kentucky. With over 20 years of nursing experience, including 15 years dedicated to pediatric vascular access, she has developed expertise in PICC line placement, port-a-cath access, and ultrasound-guided IV insertion for difficult cases. Her commitment to safe, effective, and minimally traumatic procedures has made her a trusted clinical expert and mentor within her hospital and the broader pediatric nursing community. In addition to providing direct patient care, Jennifer plays a vital role in education and policy development. She leads training programs for new nurses, develops hospital protocols for central line care, and conducts annual competency education to ensure best practices in pediatric vascular access. Her work emphasizes both clinical excellence and compassionate care, helping to reduce pain and anxiety for her young patients while supporting the professional growth of her colleagues. Jennifer is vascular access board certified and maintains active memberships in the Association for Vascular Access and the Infusion Nurses Society, reflecting her dedication to evidence-based practice and professional development. Jennifer earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Northern Kentucky University and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Nurse Educator from the same institution. Recognized nationally for her contributions, she has assisted in presenting case studies at professional conferences and continues to expand her team to meet the growing needs of a larger children’s hospital. At the heart of her work is a deep commitment to preventing medical trauma in children, fostering a safe and supportive environment, and shaping the future of pediatric vascular access care.

• Northern Kentucky University – Bachelor of Science in Nursing
• Northern Kentucky University - Master’s in Clinical Nurse Educator – In Progress

• Vascular Access – Board Certified
• Neonatal and Pediatric PICC Insertion, Care, and Maintenance – Bard Access Systems
• Pediatric Advanced Life Support
• Basic Life Support

• Recognized nationally for presenting a case study at the Association for Vascular Access conference

• Association for Vascular Access (AVA)
• Infusion Nurses Society (INS)

• Mentoring and teaching new nurses through annual educational boot camps and classes at Kentucky Children’s Hospital

Presented a case study at the national level for the Association for Vascular Access

Areas of Specialization/Expertise

  • PICC Line Insertion and Maintenance
  • Port-a-Cath Access
  • Ultrasound-Guided IV Placement
  • Staff Education & Competency Training
  • Policy & Procedure Development
Q

What do you enjoy most about practicing medicine?

I enjoy preventing medical trauma in children and ensuring their experiences with vascular access are as safe and pain-free as possible. Teaching others to do the same brings me great satisfaction.

Locations

Golisano Children’s Hospital at the University of Kentucky

800 Rose Street Fourth Floor, Lexington, KY 40536

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