Peripheral intravenous catheter use in Europe: towards the use of safety devices.

Background: Peripheral intravenous catheters are among the most widely used medical devices in the world. European patients are increasingly aware of the risk of health care associated infections and the role catheters play in their facilitation.

Aims: We intend to show that European health care providers are increasingly aware of the occupational risks of bloodborne infections such as HIV and hepatitis which can be transmitted by the needles from catheters and that the political will is building to take action to ensure safer devices are provided.

Methods: We review the wide variety of peripheral intravenous catheters which are specially engineered to reduce these risks.

Results: Available safety devices include spring-loaded retractable needles, guards that shield the dangerous tips and closed, needle-free access valves for intravenous sets.

Conclusions: It is no longer necessary for patients and professionals to take risks to health and life when solutions which minimize these risks are at hand.