Peripheral i.v. stabilization and the rate of complications in children: an exploratory study

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Nursing
• Medical Device Technology
• Infection Control

Background:

• Peripheral intravascular catheter (PIV) insertion is a common invasive procedure in hospitalized children.
• PIV insertion carries a significant risk of complications, impacting patient care and outcomes.
• Current practices involve standard aseptic taping, with newer adhesive anchoring devices available.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare complication rates between standard aseptic taping and an adhesive anchoring device for pediatric PIVs.
• To evaluate the efficacy of stabilization devices in reducing PIV-related complications in children.
• To provide evidence-based recommendations for PIV securement in pediatric populations.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study involving 80 hospitalized children aged 2-17 years.
• Two groups were assessed: one using standard aseptic taping, the other using a commercial adhesive anchoring device.
• Complication rates, including occlusion, infiltration, leaking, and dislodgement, were recorded and compared.

Main Results:

• Overall complication rate was 22.5% (18 out of 80 participants).
• The most frequent complications were occlusion (n=8), infiltration (n=4), leaking (n=3), and dislodgement (n=2).
• No statistically significant difference in complication rates or types was observed between the taping and anchoring device groups.

Conclusions:

• The study suggests that adhesive anchoring devices may not offer a significant advantage over standard aseptic taping for short-duration PIVs in children.
• Complication rates are comparable between the two methods, indicating potential for cost-effectiveness with standard taping.
• Further research could explore long-term PIV use and specific pediatric subpopulations.