Protecting Peripheral Intravenous Catheters: A New Approach with Antimicrobial Dressings: Study Protocol
Peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) are widely used in hospitals to administer treatments. However, they can lead to infections, increasing healthcare costs and putting patients at risk. To address this, researchers have developed a novel antimicrobial dressing aimed at reducing PIVC-related infections and complications like phlebitis.
Study Overview
This randomized controlled trial, known as the ProP trial, aims to test whether a new chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG)-impregnated dressing is more effective than standard care in preventing PIVC infections. Conducted across three centers in Australia and France, the trial will enroll over 2,600 patients (both adults and children aged 6 and above) who need PIVCs for at least 48 hours.
Methodology
Patients will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: the group receiving the CHG antimicrobial dressing or the group receiving the standard polyurethane dressing. An internal pilot phase with 300 patients is being used to ensure that the trial is feasible and that the protocol works effectively. The primary goal is to compare the rates of catheter-related infections and phlebitis between the two groups.
Why It Matters
Infections from PIVCs can lead to extended hospital stays, additional treatments, and increased costs. If the antimicrobial dressing proves to be both safe and effective, it could transform the way healthcare providers manage PIVCs, potentially reducing infections and improving patient outcomes.
Conclusion
The ProP trial is a critical step forward in finding better ways to protect patients with PIVCs. By reducing infections through the use of CHG-impregnated dressings, healthcare systems can not only improve patient safety but also reduce costs associated with complications from PIVC use.
Authors: Claire M. Rickard, Bertrand Drugeon, Amanda Ullman, Nicole M. Marsh, Amanda Corley, Daner Ball, Catherine O'Brien, Tricia M. Kleidon, Jérémy Guenezan, Raphael Couvreur, Kate L. McCarthy, Sabrina Seguin, Guillaume Batiot, Joshua Byrnes, Jessica Schults, Syeda Farah Zahir, Olivier Mimoz
