Evaluating peripheral intravascular catheter insertion, maintenance and removal practices in small hospitals using a standardized audit tool

Aim The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical practice about peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) insertion, maintenance and removal in a cohort of Victorian hospitals. Design A standardized PIVC audit tool was developed, and results from point prevalent surveys were conducted. Methods Hospitalized patients requiring a PIVC insertion were eligible for audit. Audit data submitted between 2015 and 2019 were extracted for the current study. Results 3566 PIVC insertions in 15 Victorian public hospitals were evaluated. 57.6% of PIVCs were inserted in wards, 18.7% in operating theatres and 11.6% in Emergency Departments (ED). 45.2% were inserted by nurses and 38.2% by medical staff. The preferred site for insertion was the dorsum of the hand and forearm (58.8%). 22.6% did not report a visual infusion phlebitis score at least daily, and 48% did not document a daily dressing assessment. Reasons for PIVC removal included no longer required (63%) and phlebitis (4.8%). No bloodstream infections were reported.