Multiple Intravenous Infusions Phase 2a: Ontario Survey

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Patient Safety
• Healthcare Policy

Background:

• Previous research identified concerns regarding safe administration of multiple intravenous (IV) infusions in Ontario hospitals.
• Phase 1b of the study highlighted specific patient safety risks associated with IV infusion practices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the prevalence of practices and policies that may contribute to patient safety risks in multiple IV infusion settings.
• To identify specific areas of concern in IV infusion administration within Ontario hospitals.

Main Methods:

• A survey was conducted with 64 clinical units where multiple IV infusions are common, such as adult intensive care units.
• Survey questions focused on key areas identified in Phase 1b, including labeling, patient transfer, and secondary infusion policies.

Main Results:

• Survey results revealed suboptimal practices and policies in several clinical units, indicating variability in IV infusion practices.
• Key concerns included improper use of primary IV tubing with secondary infusions, administration of high-alert medications, unclear labeling, therapy interruptions during patient transfers, and coadministration issues.
• Variability was noted in respondents' understanding of infusion pump bolus capabilities.

Conclusions:

• The survey indicates variability in IV infusion practices across Ontario, suggesting opportunities for safety improvements.
• Limitations include a small sample size, potential misunderstanding of survey questions, and a design error affecting one question.