There has been a rise in bloodstream infections. Evidence shows IV access lines used for intravenous fluids or medication can be associated with this problem. So today we're recapping on our Peripheral Venous Cannula (PVC policy).
The PVC policy should be adhered to at all times. The key points to note are:
- White caps must not be used on open lines.
- Administration sets should not be disconnected unless clinically indicated.
- Patients lines must not be re connected once disconnected.
Section 11 of the policy states:
- Primary administration sets used for continuous crystalloid infusions do not need to be replaced more frequently than every 96 hours, unless device-specific recommendations from the manufacturer indicate otherwise, become disconnected or the cannula is replaced.
- Primary administration sets used for intermittent crystalloid infusions must be changed every 24 hours if remaining connected to a device.
IV and medication should always be disposed of once disconnected from patient.