Central-line associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) pose a immediate danger to vulnerable patents, infection prevention guidance is imperative for assisting acute care hospitals in prioritizing prevention efforts. Approximately 41,000 cases of CLABSI occur in U.S. hospitals annually, increasing length of stay
When looking at best practice for changing the peripheral IV, are we considering that we are performing another invasive procedure on our patients? The INS (Infusion Nurses Society) standards published in 2011, states that we no longer need to “routinely” change the patients
Since the 1960’s the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has been investing heavily in the understand and prevention of central line-associated bloodstream infections. That investment has paid dividends, based on the findings in a study from Health Affairs (http://content.healthaffairs.org/content/33/6/1040.abstract).
Here is a great article on why we draw blood cultures, and what we do with it. Please share with all new nurses and new staff. I also found this as a good review for myself. http://labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/blood-culture/tab/test
Say congratulations to Fort HealthCare’s new PICC insertion team! The team is comprised of Deb Roe, NP, Bridgett Piller, RN, Toni Clemens, RN, Gail Bishach, RN and Heather White, RN. The team will also be adding their hospitalist. These nurses
Patients of all ages and diseases are subject to Infusion Therapy. When patients are admitted to the hospital or are having outpatient procedures, the nurse is the first health care professional that comes in contact with them. When assessing their
Important Drug Information: Some vials of Cathflo® Activase® (alteplase) have been found to contain rubber-stopper particulate matter after reconstitution. This does not impact the efficacy of Cathflo Activase, as the drug itself has not been compromised. Filtration through a 5-micron filter needle
A patient presented to our outpatient lab last week. I was called because they could not get a blood return. The patient had a double lumen power PICC and neither line had a blood return. She stated that “they” have
When drawing labs samples from the vascular access device draw only the volume of blood needed for accurate testing. INS states to consider blood sampling through a short peripheral catheter for patients who require multiple laboratory tests, are at
Infusion Ports, also called Implanted Chest Ports is a Vascular Access Device that is placed under the skin of the chest wall (planted), and the catheter tip is fed to the lower third of the SVC. Ports are a great
