Guidelines on the Safe Use of Peripheral Infusion Sets
Peripheral Infusion Sets are widely used as a mode of drug delivery in modern medical setting. It is essential that healthcare professionals and other healthcare personnel understand the safe use and management of peripheral infusion sets to ensure patient safety. This article provides an overview of peripheral infusion sets, the safe use of and management guidelines to ensure the safe and effective use of these devices and procedures.
What is a Peripheral Infusion Set?
Peripheral infusion sets are devices used to deliver small to medium volume medication intravenously. They are ideal for administering antibiotics, chemotherapy agents, total parenteral nutrition, hydration solutions and other drugs that dont require larger volumes.
Peripheral infusion sets are composed of two main components: a needle and a cannula. The needle is inserted into the vein and used to introduce the medication into the vein. The cannula is a flexible item which can be bent to the necessary angle relative to the patients body or position.
Peripheral infusion sets are typically changed every 24 hours however this may depend on the type of device being used.
What are the Benefits of Using a Peripheral Infusion Set?
Using a peripheral infusion set has a number of benefits over a more traditional, central line. These include:
Less complexity - peripheral infusion sets are often simpler to administer than the more complicated central lines.
Reduced Risk of Infection - peripheral infusion sets are less likely to become infected than central lines, as they bypass more crucial and potentially more difficult to clean aspects of the body.
Reduced Risk of Complications - due to the reduced complexity of peripheral infusion sets, the risk for complications is much lower.
What are the Guidelines for the Safe Use of Peripheral Infusion Sets?
The following is a set of guidelines for the safe use of peripheral infusion sets:
Verify the orders - verify that the medication and dosage are within the patient’s prescribed limits.
Check the equipment - make sure that the infusion set and the drug to be administered are compatible.
Wash hands - be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before administering the medication to reduce the risk of infection.
Choose the site appropriately - select a suitable and accessible infusion site.
Secure the set - make sure that the set is securely attached to the skin and kept in place throughout the infusion process.
Check the flow rate - monitor the flow rate of the infusion to ensure it is within an acceptable range.
Flush the line - flush the line after the infusion is completed to clear it of any residual medication.
Dispose of the set - once the infusion is complete, dispose of the set in accordance with safety guidelines.
These are just some of the guidelines that should be adhered to when using a peripheral infusion set. It is important to remember that the central line should be regarded as a preferable option whenever possible. Therefore, the peripheral infusion set should be used only when a central line cannot be used. In addition, it is important that all personnel involved in the infusion process are aware of their own safety and the safety of the patient.
Conclusion
Peripheral infusion sets are a reliable and safe mode of drug delivery. It is essential that healthcare personnel are aware of the guidelines and safety precautions to ensure safe and effective use. Healthcare professionals should be aware of the risks associated with the use of peripheral infusion sets and take the necessary steps to ensure a safe infusion process.
