National evaluation of safety peripheral intravenous catheters in a clinician-led project

Studies have demonstrated that up to 90% of all inpatients require the insertion of some form of an intravenous (IV) access device to facilitate therapy administration, which has also become as an essential aide in diagnostics and monitoring. These devices, particularly peripheral IV cannulas (PIVCs) are not without risks and complications. The NHS is trying to improve the safety and quality of health care by implementing evidence-based practices and one way to reduce the risks of PIVC-related complications is by to choose devices that are fit for purpose. However, there is scarcity of rigorous studies into the clinical acceptability and design of PIVCs. This article presents an excerpt of a national evaluation undertaken by an independent team of NHS senior clinicians from different fields, commissioned by the Department of Health and Social Care into everyday healthcare consumables. The NHS Clinical Evaluation Team's work focused on quality, safety and value to promote efficiency and productivity in the NHS. The success of the team, which delivered more than 30 reports, has paved the way to embedding clinical engagement and collaboration within the NHS. Involving clinicians in procurement will both ensure and assure quality, safety and value for the NHS.