CE: Evidence-Based Practice for Peripheral Intravenous Catheter Management

Abstract

Peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) are among the most common invasive devices used in hospitalized patients, with over 300 million sold in the United States each year. However, about one-fourth of PIVCs are left in situ with no prescriber orders for iv medications or solutions, "just in case" they might be needed. PIVC insertion can be painful, is often unnecessary, and may increase a patient's risk of developing a bloodstream infection. This article reviews the evidence for the appropriate use of short PIVCs in hospitalized patients, assesses the ongoing need for PIVCs, provides recommendations for alternative options, and argues for promptly removing a PIVC that is no longer in use.

Management from a multidisciplinary perspective of phlebitis related to peripheral venous catheter insertion: An international Delphi study

“…The important role of PVC users and the need for healthcare training for good prevention and follow‐up should also be highlighted (Ray‐Barruel et al., 2020 ). Offering basic knowledge to the patient provides autonomy in care, which can improve patient safety, secondary costs and practitioner time (Ray‐Barruel & Alexander, 2023 ). Vascular access health literacy, shared decision‐making and patient empowerment should be included in interventions that address complications of PVCs (Blanco‐Mavillard et al., 2020 ).…”

Peripheral intravenous catheter-induced phlebitis in a tertiary hospital of Karachi: A cohort study

“…The peripheral intravenous catheter/ cannula (PIVC) is the most common VAD used during cancer treatment. Repeated cannulations can result in venous depletion, with peripheral vessels becoming thrombosed, resulting in the need for invasive central venous catheters (Ray-Barruel & Alexander, 2023). Widespread use of vascular devices such as peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs), tunnelled catheters (e.g., Hickman), or totally implanted ports (PORTs) is accepted.…”