A comparative study of two securement techniques for short peripheral intravenous catheters

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Medical Devices
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Short peripheral intravenous (IV) catheters are widely used.
• Complications associated with peripheral IV catheters are a concern.
• Securement techniques and their impact on early complication indicators like dislodgement require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of two peripheral IV catheter securement methods.
• To evaluate the effect of transparent dressing with tape versus transparent dressing with StatLock on IV complications.
• To determine the relationship between securement method and catheter dislodgment.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study involving 105 peripheral catheters.
• Two securement groups: transparent dressing and tape (control) vs. transparent dressing and StatLock i.v./PICC (study).
• Evaluation of overall IV therapy complications and catheter dislodgment episodes.

Main Results:

• The StatLock group demonstrated a 45% reduction in overall IV therapy complications compared to the tape group (P = 0.025).
• Catheter dislodgment episodes were reduced by 40% in the StatLock group (P = 0.002).
• Average catheter dwell time was extended by 21 hours with the StatLock securement method.

Conclusions:

• Transparent dressing combined with StatLock is a more effective securement method for peripheral IV catheters.
• This securement strategy significantly reduces IV therapy complications and catheter dislodgment.
• Implementing StatLock can improve patient safety and potentially reduce healthcare costs associated with IV therapy complications.