On November 17th, AVATAR and AVAS (Australian Vascular Access Society) conducted a very successful pre-conference, full-day workshop at this year’s Australasian College of Infection Prevention and Control (ACIPC) conference at the fabulous Melbourne Convention Centre. The event, kindly sponsored by Solventum, attracted great interest with 100 in-person participants and 30 online attendees. Themed “Let’s Rein in Blood Stream Infection from Vascular Catheters!”, the wor...

Arterial catheters (ACs) are vital in intensive care units (ICUs), offering crucial access to arterial circulation for continuous blood pressure monitoring and frequent blood sampling. However, ACs also pose risks, including bloodstream infections (BSIs) and device failure. A recent analysis of data from four randomized controlled trials (RCTs) sheds light on these risks and emphasizes the need for better monitoring. Study Overview
This study analyzed the outcomes of 1,117 adult ICU patients...

The Australian Vascular Access Society (AVAS) is delighted to invite you to its 2025 Scientific Meeting, a gathering designed to inspire, educate, and connect healthcare professionals dedicated to Vascular Access. Dates: July 20–22, 2025
Location: Novotel Wollongong Northbeach, NSW This premier event is an opportunity to learn about the latest advancements in Vascular Access devices, technologies, and research. Against the stunning backdrop of Wollongong’s coastline, you’l...

Peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) are essential in emergency care, but suboptimal practices can lead to serious patient complications. In 2021, Australia introduced the Peripheral Intravenous Catheter Clinical Care Standard to help standardize these practices. However, recent studies show that many emergency department clinicians are still not adhering to these guidelines. Study Overview
This qualitative study, conducted in 2023, explored the barriers and facilitators influencing the ...

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...