A randomized controlled study to compare first stick success with Instaflash technology: The FIRSST study

Peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) are frequently used in clinical settings for intravenous access. Multiple attempts of PIVC insertions leads to patient discomfort, delay in treatment, associated complications, and extensive expenditure cost. Reduced number of attempts causes patient/nursing personnel satisfaction and expenditure costs. The present study evaluated performance efficacy of BD Venflon™ I with Instaflash needle technology (investigational device) as compared to the BD Venflon™ without Instaflash needle technology (control device).

The PIVC insertions were randomized in the ratio 1:1 using either investigational or control device and were monitored for first stick success rate, ease of insertion, and patient satisfaction. Data was analyzed using R 4.0.3 and Microsoft Excel. Chi square test was used to establish association between two categorical variables.

In total, 1402 patients were analyzed for first attempt insertion success which showed 98.72% success rate in investigational device as compared to 88.87% success rate in case of the control device (p = 0.0004). Marginal differences were observed in ease of insertion in investigational (98.71%) and control devices (99%) signifying high satisfaction levels of nursing personnels. Positive responses were observed in investigational (98.01%) and control devices (99%) underlining satisfactory performances of overall patient experiences.

The present study showed that BD Venflon™ I with Instaflash needle technology enhanced first attempt insertion success rate along with marginal differences in its efficacy in comparison with the BD Venflon™ without Instaflash needle technology thus enhancing patient and nursing personnel satisfaction in turn making it a better alternative to be used in hospitals.