Our IR department is placing the dilator ( micro introducer) to the PICC and leaving it in as a midline catheter.
Does anyone know how I can find out if the polymers it is made of is phlebitis causing? The polymers are HDPE and PTFE.
Thank you,
Our IR department is placing the dilator ( micro introducer) to the PICC and leaving it in as a midline catheter.
Does anyone know how I can find out if the polymers it is made of is phlebitis causing? The polymers are HDPE and PTFE.
Thank you,
HDPE is high density polyethelene
PTFE is polytetrafluoroethylene or Teflon
Both of these are older materials and have higher rates of phlebitis, infiltration, etc. Both of these are rigid materials and remain rigid once inside the vein. Compare these to polyurethane and there is a significant difference. Polyurethane is a thermoplastic polymer that becomes softer when it goes from room temperature to body temperature. Softer is better for reducing complications and for extending dwell time. Check the CDC Guidelines for Prevention of Intravascular Catheter Related Infections. Also here is an old study Maki, D. G., & Ringer, M. (1991). Risk factors for infusion-related phlebitis with small peripheral venous catheters. Annals of Internal Medicine, 114, 845-854.
Also contact the clinical or medical affairs dept of the catheter manufacturer for more information.
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