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Are intravenous cannulae still being misused?
T Smith1, M Pritchard-Howarth, D King
1Department of Medicine for the Elderly, Arrowe Park Hospital, Upton, Wirral.
The British Journal of Clinical Practice
|December 1, 1996
Summary
Intravenous cannulae (IVC) are often left in place after use, particularly in elderly care wards, leading to more complications. Daily review of IVC necessity and complications is recommended to improve patient safety.
Area of Science:
- Medical Devices
- Patient Safety
- Hospital Practices
Background:
- Intravenous cannulae (IVC) are widely used in hospitals.
- Current practices regarding IVC use and management may not be optimal.
- Complications associated with IVC can impact patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey the utilization of IVC in a district general hospital.
- To identify common locations and indications for IVC insertion.
- To investigate factors contributing to IVC-related complications.
Main Methods:
- A survey of 354 patients across various hospital wards.
- Interviews to determine the presence and location of IVC.
- Analysis of documentation and ward practices related to IVC.
Main Results:
- 35.3% of surveyed patients had an IVC in situ, most commonly on the wrist (41.6%).
- Indications for insertion were present in 93.7% of cases.
- IVC were frequently left in situ after cessation of use, especially on elderly wards, where complications were more prevalent.
Conclusions:
- Prolonged IVC use after cessation of indication increases complication risk.
- Specific IVC documentation on other wards correlated with fewer complications.
- Recommendations include using IVC for specific indications and daily review for complications and continued need.