Another question was asked from our education department where I work.... infectious disease department is concerned about starting a new IV site and drawing labs off initially. They feel there is too much manipulation and a possibility for infection. Is this an OK practice or not??
Celia. RN, CRNI, OCN, VA-BC
I have looked at most of the literature on the practices of drawing blood from short peripheral catheters. I can tell you that all of it focuses on the success of obtaining the sample and the accuracy of the lab valvues given a specific process. I have not seen any studies that have assessed the outcome of the catheter including rates of any complication when a catheter was used to obtain a blood sample. You may also find it helpful to read a recent lit review on short peripheral catheters and infection. You can find it at http://www.hadawayassociates.com/Resources.html
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
Thank-you for the info...just reviewed the link you gave me as well. I will pass this on and see where it goes from here.
Celia Wedge RN, CRNI, OCN, VA-BC
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