Featured Article Utilizing Guidewire Peripheral IV Technology to Improve Care for Patients with Difficult Venous Access at an Acute-Care Hospital Cheryl Campos, DNP, RN-BC, CEN, CPHQ, Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital Francie Moehring, PhD, Boston Strategic Partners
Peripheral Intravenous Lines in Patients with Difficult Venous Access Nearly 90% of the patients who are admitted to hospitals receive a vascular access device. 1 The vast majority (95%) of them are peripheral intravenous (PIV) lines,2 which are simple, inexpensive catheters.3 PIVs are typically used to deliver non-irritating fluids, medications, and blood products as well as for blood draws after being inserted into the peripheral veins (i.e., vessels of the hand, forearm, or region of the antecubital fossa).4 Despite their prevalent use, there are several challenges associated with PIV catheters including low rates of successful first-time insertion attempts (~47%) and short dwell times (~1.5 days), which may lead to frequent IV restarts. 5 Ultimately, repeated attempts and frequent replacements may increase the risk of catheter-related complications and reduce patient satisfaction.5,6 PIV insertion presents additional challenges for patients with difficult venous access (DVA).6-8 Patients may present with DVA due to a variety of characteristics including age, vein size, preexisting conditions (i.e., obesity, diabetes, chronic kidney disease) or other medical factors (i.e.,
Volume 8/Issue 2
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