Decreasing infections associated with peripheral intravenous cannulas

In progress

Summary

This project aims to promote best practice around the insertion and maintenance of peripheral intravenous cannulas (PIVCs) through developing an evidence-based bundle of care.

PIVCs are commonly used to provide treatments such as fluids or medications. More than 50 per cent of hospitalised people have at least one PIVC inserted during their stay. PIVC insertion and maintenance practices vary and can lead to serious complications such as blood stream infection with Staphylococcus aureus, commonly known as ‘golden staph’.

Update

Our expert working group has developed an evidence-based bundle of care which is now ready to test. If you are interested in testing it at your health service, complete the expression of interest form below.

Target

We will improve clinical practice in the management of PIVCs through:

• developing a PIVC bundle of care
• developing supportive tools as part of a change package to assist implementation across all Victorian health services.

Measures

20 per cent reduction in Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infections associated with peripheral intravenous cannulas.