Intravenous therapy: guidance on devices, management and care

Area of Science:

• Medical Devices
• Infection Control
• Clinical Practice

Background:

• Intravenous (IV) therapy is a common medical procedure requiring appropriate device selection and management.
• Effective management of IV devices is crucial for patient safety and treatment efficacy.
• Practitioners need clear guidance on various IV therapy devices, including peripheral (PVADs) and central venous access devices (CVADs).

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide comprehensive guidance for healthcare practitioners on the selection, management, and care of intravenous therapy devices.
• To enhance understanding of both PVADs and CVADs, including their indications and selection criteria.
• To offer recommendations for infection control, complication minimization, and documentation related to IV therapy devices.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature and best practice guidelines on intravenous therapy devices.
• Detailed discussion of Peripheral Vascular Access Devices (PVADs) and Central Venous Access Devices (CVADs).
• Inclusion of recommendations for infection control strategies, device flushing, complication management, and documentation.

Main Results:

• Provides clear distinctions and detailed information on PVADs and CVADs.
• Outlines indications for use and considerations for device selection.
• Offers evidence-based recommendations for infection risk reduction and best practices in device care.

Conclusions:

• Improved practitioner knowledge and clinical decision-making regarding IV therapy devices.
• Enhanced safe practice in the management of patients requiring intravenous therapy.
• Reduction in complications and infections associated with IV therapy devices.