Evaluating peripheral intravascular catheter insertion, maintenance and removal practices in small hospitals using a standardized audit tool

AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical practice about peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) insertion, maintenance and removal in a cohort of Victorian hospitals. DESIGN: A standardized PIVC audit tool was developed, and results from point prevalent surveys were conducted. METHODS: Hospitalized patients requiring a PIVC insertion were eligible for audit. Audit data submitted between 2015 and 2019 were extracted for the current study. RESULTS: 3566 PIVC insertions in 15 Victorian public hospitals were evaluated. 57.6% of PIVCs were inserted in wards, 18.7% in operating theatres and 11.6% in Emergency Departments (ED). 45.2% were inserted by nurses and 38.2% by medical staff. The preferred site for insertion was the dorsum of the hand and forearm (58.8%). 22.6% did not report a visual infusion phlebitis score at least daily, and 48% did not document a daily dressing assessment. Reasons for PIVC removal included no longer required (63%) and phlebitis (4.8%). No bloodstream infections were reported.