Assessment for Catheter Function, Dressing Adherence, and Device Necessity

Vascular access devices (VADs) such as peripheral intravenous vascular catheters (PIVCs), peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs), and central venous catheters (CVCs) are essential and common components of modern healthcare practice. In the United States, over 1.4 billion vascular access device procedures are undertaken annually, while, in the United Kingdom, one in three patients will have at least one cannula inserted during their hospital stay. Such devices deliver a myriad of treatments ranging from fluid replacement and delivery of medications to laboratory blood sampling. However, these devices are not without their unwanted complications, including phlebitis, thrombosis, dislodgement, and bloodstream infections, some of which have the potential to be life threatening. Great emphasis has been placed on the insertion of these devices to reduce their potential risks. However, the correct management and care of these devices is equally important and is the focus of this chapter.