Problems associated with performance of peripheral intravenous catheterization in relation to working experience

Area of Science:

• Nursing Practice
• Clinical Skills Assessment
• Healthcare Education

Background:

• Peripheral intravenous catheterization (PIVC) is a common but challenging procedure.
• Nurse experience level significantly impacts patient care outcomes.
• Identifying barriers to PIVC success is crucial for improving patient safety and care quality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore registered nurses' (RNs) perceptions of difficulties encountered during PIVC.
• To compare problem assessments between less experienced (<3 years) and more experienced (>3 years) RNs.
• To identify factors influencing RNs' confidence and decision-making in PIVC.

Main Methods:

• Quantitative, nonexperimental, descriptive, and analytic survey design.
• 83 RNs were divided into two groups based on years of experience.
• Data analyzed using SPSS version 24, including free-text responses.

Main Results:

• Less experienced RNs reported greater challenges with time, experience, and ability, and perceived lack of blood return.
• Despite challenges, less experienced RNs believed catheters were correctly placed in the vein.
• Seeking support from experienced critical care nurses was sometimes perceived as a reason not to attempt PIVC.

Conclusions:

• Nursing education and post-graduation support are essential for developing effective problem-solving and clinical reasoning in PIVC.
• Further research is needed to understand the educational needs for PIVC and the transfer of skills from simulation to clinical practice.