Operation STICK improves vascular access outcomes
Abstract:
Background: Education and training may improve outcomes within an experienced vascular access team.
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to measure the impact of a standardized peripheral intravenous catheter insertion educational program (Operation STICK) on vascular access outcomes.
Methods: A quasi-experimental study design was used. Adult inpatients with difficult intravenous access (DIVA) requiring ultrasound-guided insertion by a vascular access specialty team were eligible. Data were collected before and 7 months after the educational training program.
Results: A total of 54 subjects were included (24 pre- and 30 post-implementation). Significant improvements were found for mean peripheral intravenous catheter dwell time (3.62 to 14.97 days, P < .001), completion of therapy (58.3% to 96.7%, P = .001), and first-stick success rate (79.2% to 100%, P = .013). Catheter-to-vein ratio significantly decreased (P = .007).
Conclusions: Standardized education/training in vascular access focusing on best practices yields favorable outcomes for DIVA patients within an established specialty team.
Reference:
Gibson SM, Sarlabous J, Adair L, Bahl A. Operation STICK Improves Vascular Access Outcomes in a Specialty Team: A Quasi-Experimental Study. J Nurs Care Qual. 2024 Aug 12. doi: 10.1097/NCQ.0000000000000801. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39151043.