Care and cost-utility indicators for high-flow PICC catheters: a study

Area of Science:

• Vascular Access Device Management
• Healthcare Management and Economics
• Patient Care and Education

Background:

• Central venous access is crucial for chronic patients requiring prolonged IV therapy.
• Effective management of central lines is essential to minimize complications and optimize outcomes.
• The establishment of specialized Intravenous Therapy Teams (IVTTs) aims to enhance care quality and resource utilization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the creation and implementation of an IVTT at Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of the IVTT using cost-utility analysis and outcome indicators.
• To assess the impact of a high-flow peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) program managed by the IVTT.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of an IVTT focused on patients requiring central venous access.
• Utilization of high-flow peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) for chronic patients.
• Collection and analysis of activity, welfare, educational, and economic indicators, including cost-utility analysis.

Main Results:

• 80% of patients achieved a positive response with 98 catheters placed.
• Catheter removal reasons included end of treatment (30%), death (42%), and infection (4%).
• Cost savings were observed after 77-90 days compared to traditional central venous catheters, with immediate savings per catheter.

Conclusions:

• The IVTT and PICC program are cost-effective, offering benefits to patients, professionals, and healthcare organizations.
• Implementation of the IVTT led to improved patient care and more efficient resource management.
• The study demonstrates the value of specialized IVTTs in optimizing vascular access device management.