Frequently Asked Questions

Peripheral Intravenous Catheters

What is the recommended frequency for changing a PIVC?                      

Should pain relief be given for insertion of a PIVC?

What is the recommended dressing for a PIVC?

What's the recommendation for flushing practice?

What rate is best to 'keep vein open'?

Central Venous Access Devices

Are CVAD bundles effective in preventing CLABSI?

Ultrasound guidance or landmark technique for CVAD insertion?

Are impregnated catheters better for preventing CLABSI?

What are the best dressings for preventing CLABSI?

Are sutureless securement devices effective at reducing BSI?

How often should I change the IV administration set?

Heparin or saline for flushing CVADs?

Is it safe to reinfuse blood drawn from a CVAD via a syringe when checking line patency or drawing blood?

Antisepsis

What's the most effective way to disinfect a needleless connector?

What's the best skin prep for blood collection for transfuion purposes?

Arterial catheters

Heparin or saline for arterial line patency?