Needle-free devices: design, function, benefits and possible complications

Health professionals continue to be under pressure to reduce costs while providing efficient care and ensuring patient safety. As the number of vascular access devices (VADs) used in health care continues to increase, there is a need to reduce the complications, such as infection and occlusion, associated with them. Needle-free devices (NFDs) first became available in the early 1990s with the aim of reducing the number of needles in clinical practice. Since then different designs have been developed. As well as the original aim of NFDs to maintain a closed system and to reduce the risk of needlestick injuries and blood spillage, NFDs are now designed with the aim of improving clinical outcomes by reducing the common complications of infection and catheter occlusion. Due to the increasing number of NFDs with various specific designs available, it is imperative that health professionals have an understanding of the different types and functions. This article provides an explanation of NFD design and functions, guidance and information about their benefits when used correctly, as well as advice on preventing possible complications associated with their use.