Mapping existing research on flushing peripheral vascular catheters: a scoping review protocol.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

The peripheral vascular catheter (PVC) is the most common intravenous medical device used in hospitals, given it is crucial for the delivery of intravenous therapies. Despite its widespread use, PVC complications such as occlusion, infiltration, extravasation, phlebitis, thrombophlebitis, catheter-related thrombosis and catheter-related bloodstream infection significantly affect patient safety, leading to increased morbidity and healthcare costs. One approach to maintain PVC patency and therefore device longevity is to flush the PVC. This usually involves the use of 5 to 10 mL syringes with normal saline. The evidence on PVC flushing practices is dispersed, making it difficult to draw clear conclusions about current practices and clinical implications. A scoping review

SUBMITTER: Deng J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11758703 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature