A retrospective study of subcutaneous anchor securement systems in oncology patients.

Introduction: Maintaining optimal central venous catheter tip position requires reliable catheter securement. A vital decision about the choice of engineered securement device is often made by what is conveniently available in the insertion kit or default clinical routine. The importance of continuous securement for oncology patients prompted the need for an evaluation of securement options currently available.

Vascular access device securement for oncology patients and those with chronic diseases.

This article presents three case studies, each discussing securement issues as they relate to the use of long-term vascular access devices from the perspectives of the clinician and the patient. The choice of securement should be weighed against the patient's activity level, duration of the line placement, infection risks and inevitable skin irritation caused by repeated replacement of adhesive securement. Living with a chronic illness requiring frequent infusions is difficult enough-worrying about the device being dislodged should not be an additional stressor.

Assessing and Restoring Patency in Midline Catheters.

Maintaining and restoring patency in midline catheters has been a significant issue in the hospitalized patient requiring a multitude of infusates and frequent blood specimen collection. Currently, clinicians may not use this device as often as clinically indicated because they lack an approved intervention to treat thrombotic occlusions. The purpose of this research was to show evidence that alteplase, a US Food and Drug Administration-approved thrombolytic for central vascular access devices, is a safe and effective thrombolytic for midline catheters.

A proactive approach to combating venous depletion in the hospital setting.

This study focuses on the effects of infusion nurse specialists on the culture of an institution as it relates to infusion therapy practice. During the 18-month study, data were gathered on the outcomes of the proactive approach instituted by the infusion specialists. Outcomes assessed included phlebitis prevalence, peripherally inserted catheter placements, patient satisfaction scores, and ratio of catheters being placed by interventional radiology to the bedside placements.