Recurrent central venous catheter migration in a patient with brittle asthma
Described is a case with a recurrent complication of device failure secondary to migration of the central venous catheter tip as a result of recurrent coughing episodes” Hignell and Phelps (2019). Abstract: Central venous catheters are widely used in intensive care and critically unwell patients, and reporting of unusual complications is in the interest of […]
Dose prediction software for vancomycin dosing
Vancomycin pharmacokinetics are best described using a 2-compartment model. However, 1-compartment population models are commonly used as the basis for dose prediction software. Therefore, the validity of using a 1-compartment model to guide vancomycin drug dosing was examined” Shingde et al (2019). Abstract: AIMS: Vancomycin pharmacokinetics are best described using a 2-compartment model. However, 1-compartment […]
Physicochemical stability of pembrolizumab admixture solution
The purpose of this study was to investigate the physicochemical stability of pembrolizumab diluted solution (1 mg/mL) at both refrigerated and room temperature conditions for an extended period” Sundaramurthi et al (2019). Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Pembrolizumab is an anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody, approved and under development for numerous indications in oncology. It is available as either lyophilized powder […]
Reducing gaps between central line guidelines and implementation
The aim of the study was to deconstruct CLABSI prevention guidelines (“during insertion” process only) through the PD approach, working with physicians to identify additional actions that, in practice, help maintain a sterile environment and contribute to patient safety” Cohen et al (2019). Abstract: BACKGROUND: Despite a proven association between the implementation of prevention guidelines […]
Rupture along middle port of a triple lumen catheter
Later CVC was removed, and on examination of the catheter, we noted an intraluminal fibrin clot and a partial tear near the opening of the middle port” Burman et al (2019). Abstract: Central venous catheter (CVC) insertion is a commonly done procedure but associated with some potential complications. In our case, intraoperatively we placed a […]
Etoposide, epirubicin hydrochloride and vindesine sulphate compatibility
In this study, we replaced these drugs with vindesine and epirubicin hydrochloride to reduce the cardiotoxicity and evaluated admixtures containing these drugs along with etoposide in a single infusion bag in vitro” Li et al (2019). Abstract: WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVES: The etoposide, doxorubicin hydrochloride, vincristine sulphate, cyclophosphamide and prednisone (EPOCH) chemotherapy regimen is […]
FDA-approved implantable apheresis vascular access device
The PowerFlow Implantable Apheresis IV Port can achieve flow rates necessary for all apheresis therapies and is a promising alternative vascular access device for patients undergoing apheresis” Gray et al (2019). Abstract: BACKGROUND: Patients requiring chronic apheresis treatments typically lack sufficient peripheral venous access to support long-term therapy. Historically, central venous tunneled catheters, septum-bearing subcutaneous […]
RCT compares continuous and short-term cefuroxime infusion
We evaluated bone, subcutaneous tissue (SCT) and plasma pharmacokinetics of cefuroxime in male patients undergoing total knee replacement (TKR) after both traditional short-term infusion (STI) and continuous infusion (CI)” Tøttrup et al (2019). Abstract: Cefuroxime is widely used as antibiotic prophylaxis for orthopaedic procedures. We evaluated bone, subcutaneous tissue (SCT) and plasma pharmacokinetics of cefuroxime […]
Updated OPAT recommendations from the UK
The OPAT UK good practice recommendations for adults and children have recently been updated through a process of literature review, expert consensus and extensive stakeholder consultation” Chapman et al (2019). Abstract: Outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) offers safe, effective and patient-centred care for adults and children. The OPAT UK good practice recommendations for adults and […]
Blood transfusion for deep space exploration
Astronauts on exploration missions may be at risk for traumatic injury and medical conditions that lead to life threatening hemorrhage. Resuscitation protocols are limited by the austere conditions of spaceflight” Nowak et al (2019). Abstract: BACKGROUND: Astronauts on exploration missions may be at risk for traumatic injury and medical conditions that lead to life threatening […]
Inadvertent arterial placement of central venous catheters
Inadvertent arterial placement of central venous catheters carries serious sequelae, including pseudoaneurysm development and stroke” Dornbos et al (2019). Abstract: Inadvertent arterial placement of central venous catheters carries serious sequelae, including pseudoaneurysm development and stroke. Although numerous strategies for therapeutic repair after arterial injury have been employed, no treatment provides a definitive standard of care. […]
Double-lumen catheter for hemodialysis dislocated into the mediastinum
The insertion of a catheter into the mediastinum can occur in any patient as a complication” Kusumoto et al (2019). Abstract: The insertion of a catheter into the mediastinum can occur in any patient as a complication. We must check for blood regurgitation not only in the blood removal line but also in the blood […]
Intermittent vs. continuous vancomycin infusion for gram-positive infections
The clinical use of intermittent infusion of vancomycin (IIV) and continuous infusion of vancomycin (CIV) is controversial. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness and safety of IIV and CIV by using a meta-analysis for cohort studies and randomized controlled trials” Chu et al (2019). Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The clinical use of intermittent […]
Economic burden associated with peripheral IV catheter-related complications
This study aimed to analyze the clinical and economic impact of peripheral intravenous-related complications on hospitalized patients” Lim et al (2019). Abstract: The burden of complications associated with peripheral intravenous use is underevaluated, in part, due to the broad use, inconsistent coding, and lack of mandatory reporting of these devices. This study aimed to analyze […]
Impact of a simple hygiene insertion bundle on CLABSI rates
The primary aim of this study was to investigate the CRI/CRBSI incidence and the association between potential risk factors, including the introduction of a simple hygiene insertion bundle and CRIs at a large university hospital in Sweden” Thorarinsdottir et al (2019). Abstract: BACKGROUND: Catheter-related infections (CRIs) and catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) are among the most […]
Fibroblastic sheath mimicking a central venous catheter fragment
When calcified, fibroblastic (formerly known as “fibrin”) sheaths may be easily mistaken for retained catheter fragments. We describe one such case and how imaging was used to recognize the sheath and avoid unnecessary interventions” Baciarello et al (2019). Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Fibroblastic sheath formation is a well-known complication of long-term central venous catheters. When calcified, fibroblastic […]
Virtual reality headset to decrease venipuncture pain
This experimental study was conducted to determine the effect of using a virtual reality headset on decreasing the pain felt during a venipuncture procedure in children” Aydın et al (2019). Abstract: PURPOSE: This experimental study was conducted to determine the effect of using a virtual reality headset on decreasing the pain felt during a venipuncture […]
Brachial artery pseudoaneurysm post-venipuncture
Brachial artery pseudoaneurysms (BAPs) are rare but could lead to complications of high morbidity. We report a case of a BAP presenting with hand ischemia and median nerve neuropathy nearly a decade after the inciting iatrogenic trauma” Lee et al (2019). Abstract: Brachial artery pseudoaneurysms (BAPs) are rare but could lead to complications of high […]
Practical approach to the management of CRBSI
This review focuses on updated recommendations for the diagnosis and management of CRBSI in adults” Cantón-Bulnes and Garnacho-Montero (2019). Abstract: Catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI) is a common cause of nosocomial infection associated resulting in substantial morbidity, mortality, increased length of hospital stays and health-care costs. New clinical practice guidelines for the management of adults with […]
Prevalence of needlestick injury among healthcare workers
The aim was to establish the pooled prevalence of needlestick injuries among healthcare workers in Ethiopia” Yazie et al (2019). Abstract: BACKGROUND: Health facilities can provide diagnostic, curative, and prognostic services for the community. While providing services, healthcare workers can be exposed to needlestick injuries that can transmit pathogenic organisms through body fluids. OBJECTIVE: The […]
Monitoring quality of care for peripheral intravenous catheters
Our study highlights the need for PIVC quality surveillance on ward and hospital level and reports the PIVC-miniQ to be a reliable and time efficient tool suitable for frequent point-prevalence audits” Høvik et al (2019). Abstract: BACKGROUND: Peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) account for a mean of 38% of catheter associated bloodstream infections (CABSI) with Staphylococcus […]
Impact of an innovative IV securement dressing
This study’s purpose is to assess the impact of single-use disposable tourniquets and advanced occlusive polyurethane dressings with reinforced cloth borders on peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC)-related complications and contamination” Parreira et al (2019). Abstract: Reusable tourniquets and conventional securement dressings are considered risk factors for the occurrence of reported complications and catheter-related bloodstream infections. This […]
Ethanol locks for the prevention of catheter-related infection
This study aimed to provide a comprehensive summary of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the efficacy and safety of ethanol locks for preventing CRI in patients with CVC” Zhang et al (2019). Abstract: BACKGROUND: The widespread use of central venous catheters (CVCs) has exposed patients to a high risk of catheter-related infection (CRI), which is […]
An initiative to reduce community acquired CLABSI
To reduce the incidence of CA-CLABSIs requires a concentrated effort between hospitals and home health agencies” Patton et al (2019). Abstract: BACKGROUND: Community acquired blood stream infections (CA-CLABSI) are a major source of morbidity and mortality for pediatric patients. Many organizations discharge pediatric patients to home health agencies to care for central lines. To reduce […]
Innovative cyanoacrylate device to improve IV catheter securement
The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the strength of a novel catheter securement cyanoacrylate for securing peripheral venous catheters, central venous catheters, peripherally inserted central catheters, and all other intravascular catheter types” Guido et al (2019). Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Over one billion intravascular devices are used worldwide, annually. Due to the associated complications with […]
Central venous blood gas analysis an alternative to arterial analysis
This study was aimed to investigate the correlation of pH, PCO2, bicarbonate, sodium, potassium, and chloride (electrolytes) between ABG and central VBG in ICU patients” Bijapur et al (2019). Abstract: AIMS: Arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis is a frequently ordered test in intensive care unit (ICU) and can analyze electrolyte in addition to pH and […]
Overuse of intravenous infusions in China reviewed
This article reviews the current status of the overuse of intravenous (IV) infusions in China and implications to patient safety, and analyzes factors associated with the overuse” Zeng et al (2019). Abstract: This article reviews the current status of the overuse of intravenous (IV) infusions in China and implications to patient safety, and analyzes factors […]
Therapeutic drug monitoring-guided continuous infusion of piperacillin/tazobactam
We assessed the effect of therapeutic drug monitoring-guided (TDM), continuous infusion (CI) and individual dosing of piperacillin/tazobactam (PIP) on PK-target attainment in critically ill patients” Richter et al (2019). Abstract: PURPOSE: Standard dosing and intermittent bolus application (IB) are important risk factors for pharmacokinetic (PK) target non-attainment during empirical treatment with β-lactams in critically ill […]
Maintenance antisepsis in reducing the rate of late-onset central venous catheter-related bloodstream infection
We aimed to analyze the effectiveness of maintenance antisepsis at the CVC insertion site in reducing the CRBSI risk through comparing the use of 0.05% chlorhexidine to 1% chlorhexidine” Kikuchi et al (2019). Abstract: BACKGROUND: Bundled measures have been recommended to reduce the risk of central venous catheter (CVC)-related bloodstream infection. However, the importance of […]
Potential efficacy of garlic IV lock therapy in combating biofilm formation
Is to estimate the potential use of fresh garlic extract (FGE) as a lock agent against multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacteria” Farrag et al (2019). Abstract: BACKGROUND: Life-threatening central venous catheter-related infections are primarily initiated by biofilm formation on the catheter surface. Antibiotic lock therapy is recommended for eradicating intraluminal biofilm. In the era of antibiotic […]