We are searching for evidence regarding current commendations regarding pressure valves on CVAD's. What does the current evidence show are positive or neutral valves the best? We are current using the Baxter neutral valve and have some issues with how they connect with the syringes. Some are reporting that while connecting the syringe it doesn't always connect easily and slips off and can get contaminated if the syringe hits that nurses hand. But before we decide to look for different valve we wanted to know the current evidence regarding positive or neutral valves.
2016 INS Standards stated there is no difference between any types of needleless connectors with regard to infection rates and lumen occlusion. I have not seen any comparison studies since then. There are only 2 needleless connectors on the market that work by pressure changes. Glossary in INS Standards labels these as anti-reflux needleless connectors, but no comparison studies. The difference between the anti-reflux and the others is that all others remain an open conduit allowing blood reflux until the administration set is disconnected. The anti-reflux type closes automatically when there is a column of fluid left in the admin set of between 8-10 inches. Decreasing gravity infusion pressure causes the closure. 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