Accepted but Unacceptable: Peripheral IV Catheter Failure.

Area of Science:

• Medical procedures
• Vascular access
• Patient safety

Background:

• Peripheral intravenous (IV) catheter insertion is the most common invasive hospital procedure globally.
• Current failure rates range from 35% to 50%, even with expert practitioners.
• Catheter failure incurs significant costs for patients, caregivers, and healthcare systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the underlying mechanisms contributing to the high failure rate of peripheral IV catheters.
• To identify opportunities for improving the success and longevity of these devices.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on peripheral IV catheter insertion and failure.
• Analysis of reported complications and contributing factors.
• Identification of trends and patterns in catheter failure.

Main Results:

• Despite advancements, peripheral IV catheter failure remains a significant issue.
• Specific mechanisms contributing to failure were identified.
• Opportunities for procedural and technological improvements exist.

Conclusions:

• Further research and implementation of improved strategies are needed to reduce peripheral IV catheter failure rates.
• Enhancing insertion techniques and catheter design can mitigate complications.
• Reducing failure rates will improve patient outcomes and decrease healthcare expenditures.