Implementation of a Protocol for Peripheral Intravenous Norepinephrine: Does It Save Central Line Insertion, Is It Safe?

Background: Central venous catheters (CVC) are generally recommended for norepinephrine administration due to risk of tissue ischemia. Early resuscitation, leading to decreased infusion duration, may minimize the need for CVCs if norepinephrine can be administered safely through a peripheral intravenous catheter (PIV).

Objective: A protocol was developed for peripheral administration. Safety, CVC placement, and adherence with protocol elements were evaluated.

Methods: A single-center, prospective, observational pilot was conducted for patients receiving norepinephrine in the Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU). Patients were considered for PIV administration of low dose norepinephrine for less than 24 hours based on clinical status and anticipated short-term use. Protocolized interventions for PIV's included criteria for gauge, number, and site as well as visual inspection and evaluation every 2 hours. Data was collected on protocol elements to evaluate safety and effectiveness of the protocol.

Results: There were 316 occurrences of norepinephrine infusions including 92 via PIV (patients may have received multiple treatments). 34% (31/92) did not require a CVC. 3 had infiltrated PIV's without tissue injury. Maximum dose adherence was 73%. 97% of infusions ran less than 24 hours. Nursing adherence included: 91% gauge, 65% proper site, 99% adequate number, 49% blood return on initiation, 55% ongoing blood return, and 61% IV site checked.

Conclusion: Our results suggest that norepinephrine is safe to administer through a PIV at low doses for less than 24 hours using a protocol. Prevention of unnecessary CVC insertion is beneficial by minimizing the risk of central line complications thus improving patient morbidity.