Central venous access devices (CVADs) are crucial for administering treatments to patients with complex medical conditions. However, they often lead to skin impairments like infections, pressure injuries, and dermatitis. This blog outlines the development of a new classification tool designed to standardize the identification and management of these skin impairments. Study Overview
The study aimed to design and validate a comprehensive Central Venous Access Device-Associated Skin Impairment ...

Peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) are among the most commonly used medical devices in hospitals. However, the insertion process can be complicated for patients with difficult intravenous access (DIVA), leading to poor outcomes, delayed treatments, and wasted resources. A recent study explored how hospital staff perceive the costs and efficiency associated with PIVC insertions for DIVA patients. Study Overview
This qualitative case study was conducted across three large urban hospitals...

Introduction:
Introducing new medical devices in hospitals is essential for advancing patient care, but it also presents challenges for clinicians. This study explores how emergency department (ED) doctors and nurses adapted to a newly introduced guidewire peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC). Background:
Hospitals frequently introduce new vascular access devices, but the process of adapting to these innovations is often overlooked. Understanding clinicians' experiences and challenges ...

Intravenous (IV) fluids are essential in medical treatments, especially for managing hydration and electrolyte imbalances in patients. However, hospitals in Australia are currently facing a shortage of IV fluids due to global supply issues. This blog provides an overview of the situation, including recommendations for conservation and safety measures. Understanding the Shortage
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has announced ongoing shortages of IV fluids from key suppliers, includi...

Introduction:
Invasive devices are essential in pediatric healthcare, but they carry risks of thrombosis and bleeding. This meta-analysis provides a comprehensive estimate of these complications, helping clinicians make informed decisions and improve patient outcomes. Background:
Thrombosis and bleeding associated with invasive devices contribute significantly to morbidity and mortality in pediatric patients. Despite the widespread use of these devices, the prevalence and rates of such compl...

Learn about AVATAR's latest advancements!  From standout presentations at the AVA Conference in Denver to engaging local outreach with future healthcare professionals, October has been a month of growth and achievement for AVATAR. Highlights include: Global Impact: Our experts took the stage at the AVA Conference in Denver, USA, with sessions challenging norms in catheter care and implementation science. Congratulations to Dr. Sabrina de Souza for earning an AVA Foundation Schol...

Introduction:
Central venous access devices (CVADs) are essential in pediatric care, providing a reliable route for long-term treatments. However, they are also associated with risks such as infections, thrombosis, and catheter occlusions. This network meta-analysis evaluates various lock solutions used to prevent or treat these complications. Background:
CVAD locks are routine interventions designed to maintain catheter patency and prevent complications. With multiple options available, det...

Introduction:
Invasive devices are indispensable in pediatric healthcare, yet they also pose significant risks. This multi-site point prevalence survey explores the utility and harm associated with invasive devices in hospitalized pediatric patients across three Australian tertiary hospitals. Background:
Pediatric patients are particularly vulnerable to complications from invasive devices. Understanding the prevalence of device use and associated harm is crucial for improving patient safety ...

Introduction:
Indwelling invasive devices are frequently used in pediatric healthcare, but they come with risks of skin complications and mechanical dysfunctions. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the prevalence of these issues and highlight the need for improved surveillance and reporting. Background:
Devices like central venous access devices, peripheral intravenous catheters, and nasogastric tubes are essential in pediatric care. However, the complications associa...

Introduction:
Invasive devices are vital in pediatric healthcare, but they pose significant infection risks. This meta-analysis aims to estimate infection rates and proportions associated with these devices, highlighting the need for improved preventive measures. Background:
Indwelling invasive devices, such as central venous access devices (CVADs) and ventilators, are crucial for treatment but can lead to severe infections. Understanding the infection rates associated with these devices can...