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Updated: May 31, 2026

A Novel Approach for the Administration of Medications and Fluids in Emergency Scenarios and Settings
Published on: November 9, 2016
Peripheral intravenous catheter management practices in emergency care: A descriptive observational study
Joana Ferreira Teixeira1, Maria do Rosário Pinto2, Luís Gonçalves3
1School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (ICBAS) - Porto University (UP), Porto, Portugal; Univ Coimbra, UICISA E, ESEUC, Portugal; RISE-Health: Health Research Network, Nursing School of Porto University (ESEP), Porto, Portugal; Nursing Research Innovation and Development Centre of Lisbon (CIDNUR), School of Nursing, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal.
Background:
Peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) are widely used in emergency departments to support treatment, yet their management is associated with preventable complications and variability in practice.
Methods:
A descriptive observational study was conducted between June and September 2025 in an emergency department in (country). Direct, non-participant observation assessed PIVC insertion, maintenance, intravenous therapy administration, and removal using four structured checklists. Data were analyzed descriptively and organized according to the Irvine Nursing Framework.
Results:
A total of 334 PIVC-related care episodes were observed: insertion (n = 129), maintenance (n = 33), intravenous therapy administration (n = 117), and removal (n = 55). Hand hygiene adherence was low before procedures (16.2%) and moderate after (51.2%). Deviations from guidelines were identified in catheter flushing (4.7%-10.3%), connector disinfection (11.1%), and use of sterile transparent dressings (9.3%). Maintenance practices were infrequent, and 22.7% of PIVCs were not used during the emergency department stay.
Conclusions:
Substantial discrepancies in PIVC management highlight the need for targeted quality improvement strategies to enhance adherence to evidence-based practices in emergency settings.
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