Nurses’ peripheral intravenous catheter-related practices: A descriptive study

Abstract

Background: Peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) insertion and maintenance are the procedures most commonly performed by nurses in clinical settings. However, current catheter failure rates are high, thus compromising the patient’s therapeutic plan and well-being. Objective: To understand nurses’ practices during PIVC insertion and maintenance. Methodology: A transversal and descriptive study was conducted in a cardiology ward in central Portugal. Nurses’ (n = 26) practices during PIVC management were observed and recorded by a research nurse during the morning shift, using a checklist based on transnational standard of care (SoC) recommendations. Results: During PIVC insertion (n = 38) the main digressive areas included glove usage (55.2%), use of the aseptic non-touch technique (44.7%), hand hygiene (18.4%-84.2%), and patient education (28.9%). Regarding PIVC maintenance (n = 66), catheter hub disinfection (78.8%), catheter flushing (53.3%-78.8%), and patient education (24.2%) were the main deviating areas found. Significant PIVC failure rates were found (25.8%). Conclusion: Overall, a substantial number of PIVC-related practices does not comply with current SoC recommendations, which may pose a risk to patient safety and care quality.