RN Knowledge of Vascular Access Devices Management

Abstract

PurposeTo explore the level of RNs knowledge of managing vascular access devices (VADs)- peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) and midline catheters, and to determine if nurse characteristics are associated with knowledge level. BackgroundEducation of nursing staff about VAD management can improve quality of care and assure standards of practice are maintained. Review of LiteratureMinimal research is available on nurses' knowledge of managing VAD catheters. MethodsNurses working on a colo-rectal unit who frequently manage VADs in a large tertiary-care medical center voluntarily completed one anonymous, validated, 10-item survey of VAD management themes. Analysis included descriptive and correlational statistics. ResultsOf 36 nurses, (97% female, 53% full time), mean VAD knowledge score was 8.1±1.4 (81% mean sum score). Perceived general level of comfort in flushing PICCs (r=.35, P=0.04), using Alteplase with PICCs (r=.36, P=0.03) and changing dressings (r=.38; P=0.03) were associated with higher knowledge scores. Of 10 items, 4 resulted in scores below 80%: how fast a Midline can be used after insertion, first step in managing a PICC upon admission, steps in dealing with a withdrawal occlusion, and steps post interventional radiology PICC insertion; however, nurse characteristics were not associated with scores above or below 80%. ConclusionsNurses working in the colo-rectal unit that frequently treat patients with VADs were generally knowledgeable about their management. Perceived nurse comfort in flushing a PICC, using Alteplase, and changing dressings were associated with higher knowledge. Implications for PracticeNurses' impressions of comfort with VAD management should be regularly assessed by nurse managers to assure optimal knowledge.