Peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) are a critical part of pediatric care, but achieving first-time insertion success remains a challenge. Multiple failed attempts not only delay treatment but also increase complications, distress, and healthcare costs. A recent prospective cohort study explored the impact of patient characteristics, techniques, and technology on first-attempt PIVC insertion success in hospitalized children. Study Overview
This study was conducted at a large quaternary ...

Peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) are one of the most commonly used medical devices in emergency departments (EDs), yet adherence to best practices remains inconsistent. A recent cross-sectional observational study investigated how well Australian ED clinicians follow the PIVC Clinical Care Standard introduced in 2021. The findings reveal significant gaps in practice, emphasizing the need for improvement in patient partnership, insertion techniques, and documentation. Study Overview
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Neonatal care often requires the use of peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) to deliver critical treatments. However, for some neonates, recurrent PIVC insertion is necessary, presenting unique challenges for clinicians and caregivers. A recent case series highlights the clinical characteristics of neonates requiring multiple PIVCs during hospitalization and explores ways to improve care for this vulnerable population. Study Overview
The study analyzed data from neonates admitted to an A...

Neonates often require vascular access devices (VADs) for essential treatments, but complications such as device failure, infections, and dislodgement remain common. In adult and pediatric care, tissue adhesive (TA) has been shown to improve catheter stability and reduce failures. However, evidence for its use in neonates is still evolving. A recent scoping review explores the current research on TA for neonatal intravenous access and highlights gaps that need further investigation. Study Ov...

Vascular access devices (VADs), such as peripheral intravenous catheters, are essential in modern healthcare, but their insertion and maintenance often come with challenges like infection risks, cannulation failure, and patient discomfort. A new systematic review explores how Vascular Access Specialist Teams (VASTs) compare to standard practices in enhancing patient outcomes and preventing catheter failure. Study Overview
This systematic review, published in BMJ Open, analyzed data from 12 s...

Peripheral venous catheterization (PVC) is a cornerstone of healthcare, providing essential vascular access for a variety of treatments. However, ensuring safe and effective PVC care remains a challenge for nurses and clinicians worldwide. A recent analysis highlights the need for evidence-based practices in Portugal to bridge gaps in care and enhance outcomes for patients. The Current Landscape in Portugal
Despite advancements in healthcare, gaps persist in the management and care of periph...

Peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) are frequently used in pediatric care, but improper care can lead to complications such as infection or catheter failure. To address these issues, the I-DECIDED tool was developed to enhance PIVC assessment and decision-making. This tool empowers healthcare professionals to deliver better care by systematically evaluating the status of PIVCs and taking necessary actions. Study Overview
A quasi-experimental, interrupted time-series study was conducted ...

Andrea Valks joined Claire Rickard’s research group in Infection Prevention and Vascular Access on 13th January as a Clinical Project Manager. Prior to joining the group, Andrea worked for 11 years in clinical research at the Australasian Kidney Trials Network at the University of Queensland.  She will bring her extensive experience managing international Investigator Initiated clinical trials to the PIVO Trial,  which aims to examine whether the use of the PIVO Pro at the ini...

Arterial catheters are commonly used in perioperative care to monitor patients undergoing surgery. Despite their widespread use, the potential complications, such as thrombosis and infections, remain a concern. A new study evaluates these risks by focusing on the use of ultrasound to assess catheter-related outcomes and patient symptoms. Study Overview
This prospective study involved 339 patients who underwent elective surgery with arterial catheterization. Duplex ultrasound was used to eval...

Central venous catheters (CVCs) are a vital part of pediatric care, providing essential access for treatments in critically ill children. However, dislodgement of these catheters is a common issue, leading to complications and increased healthcare costs. To address this, the SECURED trial tested a new subcutaneous anchor securement system (SASS) against traditional sutureless securement devices (SSDs) to determine which method better prevents catheter dislodgement in children. Study Overview...