A question came to me from a staff nurse regarding KVO rates. What is considered an appropriate KVO rate? Does a KVO rate maintain the PIV longer than intermittent normal saline flushes? Neither of use have been able to find any evidence to support or not to support the KVO practice. Any information is appreciated.
There is no magic number for a flow rate that will guarantee patency of a VAD and/or vein. This is a myth and no evidence to support it. No studies showing that a KVO rate will maintain patency loonger than flushing and locking an intermittent VAD. VAD and vein patency are influenced by far too many variables. To be a legal order, an LIP order stating "KVO IV fluids" should have a patient-specific rate prescribed OR policies must address this by establishing a flow rate by age group or other patient populations. Lynn
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