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?

How do I know if the patient's Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infection came from the PIVC?

Central Venous Access Devices

Are CVAD insertion 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?

Needleless connectors

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

Should I use a needleless connector with a continuous infusion?

Flushing and line patency

What's the recommendation for flushing practice to keep a PIVC patent?

What rate is best to 'keep vein open' to maintain PIVC patency?

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?

Heparin or saline for arterial line patency?

Administration sets

How often should I change the IV administration set?

Blood sampling and transfusion

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

If a PIVC fails during a transfusion of blood products, what is the recommended action?