Short Peripheral Catheter Performance Following Adoption of Clinical Indication Removal

Abstract

Two years following the adoption of clinical indication policies for short peripheral catheters (SPCs), a large community hospital undertook 2 extensive point prevalence reviews at 1-year intervals to study the overall outcomes associated with the SPCs. The findings were used to enhance documentation as well as staff awareness. A bundled approach was taken, focusing on insertion as well as care and maintenance needs. Consistent outcomes included at least 20% of catheters remaining functional more than 7 days and 35% more than 5 days.