Using a “bundle” to decrease infection rates with CVC’s (Central Venous Catheters) has decreased infection rates nationally. Many facilities have implemented best practices along with check lists and kits called bundles to achieve these rates. We have focused on central lines, now we need to look at all Vascular Access Devices (VAD’s). When we are placing Peripheral lines (PIV) and Midlines, we need to understand and utilize best practice for these devices as well. Hand Hygiene, sterile technique, maximum barriers, check lists, and the most important step: educating the patient and family. Who educates staff in your facility on PIV insertion? Is it part of their orientation? Do all nurses prove competent in this procedure? All staff who insert these lines in our facility attend a 2 hour Vascular Access Class and show competency in this technique. Nurses who have years of experience need to know the policies and equipment for our hospital. Annually they need to attend a skills fair that includes VAD’s. Nurses on some units may not perform this skill for many weeks or even months, so it can be difficult to stay skilled in this procedure.
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