Peripheral Intravenous Cannula Insertion and Use in the Emergency Department: An Intervention Study

Abstract

The intervention reduced PIVC placement in the ED and increased the percentage of PIVCs placed that were used. This program benefits patients and health services alike, with potential for large cost savings.

Human factor‐designed multimodal intervention reduces the rate of unused peripheral intravenous cannula insertion

“…Total PIVC insertions decreased by 12.9%, which represents almost 500 less cannulas inserted per month in our adult ED. This is similar to the results published by Hawkins et al ., which demonstrated a 9.8% reduction in PIVC placement post‐intervention. Decker et al .…”

“…Our unused rate dropped to less than 20% of the total PIVC inserted, representing a 17.7% absolute reduction. This is a larger reduction compared to the results of the intervention study published by Hawkins et al ., showing a 12.0% reduction in unused PIVC rate. Total PIVC insertions decreased by 12.9%, which represents almost 500 less cannulas inserted per month in our adult ED.…”

“…The effectiveness of MMI in advocating best practice is well described. Studies among paramedics, ED and inpatient wards suggest that MMI are a useful tool in changing clinical practices and improving patient safety.…”

“…This is consistent with Limm et al .’s findings in which 92% of cannulas were used for blood draws . Accounting for staff time and equipment use, PIVCs have been estimated to cost A$22.79 . Requiring less time and equipment, venepunctures are likely to be a cost‐effective alternative to pathology collection.…”

“…The recent prospective trial by Hawkins et al . utilised multimodal interventions (MMIs) in the ED to educate clinicians on unnecessary PIVC.…”