The incidence of infiltration can occur quickly and cause a great deal of damage. Complications of infiltration can include localized swelling and discomfort, compartment syndrome and necrosis.
In an effort to reduce the incidence of infiltration an evidence based practice change project (EBPCP) was tested. The EBPCP included a comprehensive education plan focused on guidelines for IV site care and increasing the frequency of assessment for short peripheral catheters from every 2 hours to every hour.
Before implementing these changes, the designated unit’s IV infiltration rate was 20 events per 1,000 patient days. Following the launch of the program the infiltration rate decreased to 8.93 infiltrations per 1,000 patient days. Results from the pilot suggest a need to continue with this practice change and continue to collect data.
Source: Journal of Infusion Nursing
