A stepped approach to vascular access device selection

Infusion therapy has evolved dramatically over the past few decades. From being used only in emergencies and for critically-ill patients, intravenous (IV) therapy has become a specialized form of treatment used for almost 90% of hospitalized patients (Corrigan, 1995). Infusion therapy is the parenteral administration of fluids, medications, nutritional support, blood products and the transfusion of blood. Fluids are delivered through a vascular access device, which is inserted into a peripheral or central vein (Royal College of Nursing (RCN), 2003). The venous route is the most predictable and reliable way to administer fluids and drugs when oral administration is not longer achievable or appropriate.