Adapting to New Devices: Clinicians' Experience with a Peripheral IV Catheter in the Emergency Department
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 with new devices is crucial for successful implementation and patient care.
Objective:
The study aims to explore the experiences of clinicians with the insertion of a new guidewire PIVC in the ED setting, focusing on the barriers, facilitators, and overall acceptance of the device.
Methods:
Study Design: Qualitative exploratory approach conducted at two EDs in Queensland, Australia.
Data Collection: Interviews with 10 ED doctors and nurses, supplemented by field notes from 191 observation episodes recorded by research nurses during PIVC insertions.
Data Analysis: Inductive content analysis was used to identify emerging themes from the interviews and field notes.
Key Findings:
Five key themes emerged from the analysis:
1. Diverse Experience: Clinicians had varying levels of experience with the new device, influencing their comfort and success rates.
2. Barriers to Learning: Challenges included unfamiliarity with the device and the steep learning curve associated with its use.
3. Factors Influencing Success: Key factors included the simplicity of the device, alignment with familiar techniques, and the availability of support during the learning process.
4. Recommendations for Improvement: Clinicians emphasized the need for comprehensive training, hands-on sessions, and continuous expert support to ease the transition to the new device.
5. Device Acceptance: Successful adoption of the new PIVC hinged on its design, which needed to be user-friendly and align with existing practices.
Conclusion:
For optimal patient care, clinicians in the ED require devices that are simple, safe, and familiar. The study underscores the importance of providing comprehensive training and support to ensure successful adoption of new devices. Hospitals should focus on designing user-friendly devices and offering diverse training resources to facilitate smooth integration into clinical practice.
Authors: Hui Grace Xu, Areum Hyun, Evelyn Kang, Nicole Marsh, Amanda Corley
