2006 Infusion Nursing Standards recommend IV catheter stabilization devices
The new Infusion Nursing Standards of Practice, 2006, distributed this month by the Infusion Nurses Society (INS) includes a practice criterion that addresses mechanical catheter stabilization devices to preserve the integrity and prevent loss of access. In chapter 43 "Catheter Stabilization" it states: "Products used to stabilize the catheter should include manufactured catheter stabilization devices, sterile tapes, and surgical strips. Whenever feasible, using a manufactured catheter stabilization device is preferred."
Stabilizing a catheter to preserve IV access reduces the need for unscheduled "restarts" and additional risks to the healthcare worker from unnecessary exposure to needles. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) also has clarified that employers should annually review and evaluate options for reducing risks of needlestick injuries, including securing medical catheters, and consider appropriate engineering and work practice controls. Premier's Safety Institute addresses this issue in its OSHA compliance FAQs "Options for securing medical catheters."
Premier has an agreement for StatLock IV catheter securement devices with Venetec International (PP-NS-107).
Infusion Nursing Standards of Practice, 2006, may be ordered from the Infusion Nurses Society (INS) Web site: http://www.ins1.org/