A Randomized Trial Comparing Outcomes of 3 Types of Peripheral Intravenous Catheters

There was an increase in peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) complications and adverse patient events after product conversion during the merger between a rural hospital and a larger hospital system. A review of the existing literature identified a gap in evidence evaluating 2 closed PIVC systems compared with an open PIVC system.

The purpose of the current project was to ascertain whether open or closed PIVCs are best for patients, staff, and the health care system in terms of 3 main criteria: quality, safety, and cost.

A prospective, 2-site randomized controlled trial was used to compare outcomes.

There were no differences in the complication rates between catheter types. There was a statistically significant increase in blood leakage and a decrease in clinician satisfaction with the open-system catheter.

Our project supports current clinical recommendation that a closed PIVC system, regardless of type, is not only safer and cost-effective but also preferred by patients and clinicians.