Quality Improvement Initiative Reduces the Occurrence of Complications in Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters. Issue 1 (January 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Walters, Beth; Price, Chelsey
• Is Part Of: Journal of infusion nursing. Volume 42:Issue 1(2019)
• Publication Date: 2019-01
• Subjects: alteplase -- complications -- infection -- occlusion -- PICC -- thrombosis -- vascular access; Infusion therapy -- Periodicals; Parenteral therapy -- Periodicals; Intubation -- Periodicals; Intravenous therapy -- Periodicals; Nursing -- Periodicals; 615.6
• DOI: 10.1097/NAN.0000000000000310
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1533-1458

Abstract

Abstract : Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are commonly used to access the central venous system. However, central vascular access devices are associated with a risk of complications, which may include infection, thrombosis, occlusion, or malposition. The vascular access team of 1 midwestern hospital used a quality improvement initiative to reduce the occurrence of complications associated with PICCs. A secondary aim was to reduce the number of alteplase (Cathflo Activase; Genentech, South San Francisco, CA) doses administered. After reviewing current evidence, the vascular access team employed the Plan-Do-Study-Act cycle to document and implement changes in practice. By using a team initiative to investigate this issue, complication rates decreased and patient satisfaction improved. The thrombosis rate decreased by 67%, occlusions by 75%, and alteplase use by 87%. No infections occurred during this study.