What is the best way to gather information to document phlebitis rate so that we can continue every 72 hour peripheral IV site changes? We are currently doing a random sampling once a month to document a < 5% phlebitis rate, is that sufficient?
What is the best way to gather information to document phlebitis rate so that we can continue every 72 hour peripheral IV site changes? We are currently doing a random sampling once a month to document a < 5% phlebitis rate, is that sufficient?
an unusual occurance or incident report (whatever the terminology is) should be completed and then risk management can track it for you. Then the issue would just be compliance of the nurses to fill in the form.
I am also interesting in tracking phlebitis and infiltrations. Especially since we are in the process of getting IV statlok. I would like to be able to show the improvement in rates.
Would also be interested in seeing how others do this.
In my experience bedside nurses view occurance reports as a reflection on them, as a group or individually. A specific documentation form designed to track product effectiveness or systems to improve their jobs works better in my experience. Unless there is a perception of "harm" to that specific patient they won't complete the form. (they may well be justified as those forms are generally very combersome to complete)
My area of interest is hospital compliance and culture change to promote best practices. A hugh project for us all. Any Ideas, the needs and frustrations of ICPs in gaining cooperation of bedside nurses, MDs and Administrators are not only welcome, but appreciated.
thanks!
Chonna Bartholomew, RN BS
Clinical Affairs Manager
Lynn Hadaway, M.Ed., RN, NPD-BC, CRNI
Lynn Hadaway Associates, Inc.
PO Box 10
Milner, GA 30257
Website http://www.hadawayassociates.com
Office Phone 770-358-7861
I have been doing a PI for the last two years. Monthly I go through each unit and look at their IV sites for date on Sita and then check the charting for any problems. While checking the site I also look for any phlebitis in any stage. I also check every IV in the hospital at least twice a year in an 8 hour period; this give me a very accurat phlebitis rate. By doing this i have been able to find my problem units and see a decrease in the phlebitis on those units. Be aware that this can make some nurse managers quite angry until you show them the problem month after month. Another good thing has come out it; physicians actually are more estute to the problem and ask for advice. Seeing a decrease has made the PI worth it.
Yvette Hughes,BSN
Forum Health Trumbull
Take two medical units for 30 days and do twice daily site checks
Kathy Kokotis
Bard Access Systems