Improving Treatment Experience for Children with PICC Lines: Study Reveals New Catheter Option

Parents of children requiring intravenous therapy can now find hope in a recent study conducted by Griffith University. This study compared two types of catheters – peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) and midline catheters – to determine their effectiveness in delivering medication to sick children. Led by PhD student Tricia Kleidon, the research highlights the benefits of midline catheters, which offer improved functionality and reduced failure rates compared to traditional PIVCs. This article will provide parents with valuable insights into the study’s findings and shed light on the potential for a less painful and more efficient treatment experience for their children.

  1. Fewer Complications and Improved Success Rates:
    The study revealed that midline catheters significantly outperformed PIVCs in terms of failure rates. Nearly 46% of children with PIVCs experienced catheter failure, while only 16% of those with midline catheters faced similar issues. This outcome translates to fewer interruptions in treatment, reducing pain, discomfort, and the need for additional catheter insertions. By choosing midline catheters, parents can expect more reliable and successful intravenous therapy for their children.
  2. Reduced Pain and Anxiety:
    For parents of sick children, alleviating their pain and anxiety is of utmost importance. The study demonstrated that midline catheters are associated with fewer insertion attempts, resulting in less discomfort for the child. Additionally, because midline catheters have longer dwell times, children are less likely to experience frequent needlesticks, ultimately leading to reduced pain and anxiety during hospital stays.
  3. Increased Treatment Continuity and Timely Discharge:
    By opting for midline catheters, parents can have greater confidence in the continuity of their child’s treatment. The study highlighted that children with midline catheters experienced longer dwell times, meaning the catheter remained in place for a longer duration without complications. This increased stability enables uninterrupted treatment, improving the chances of children being discharged on time from the hospital.
  4. Enhanced Satisfaction for Patients and Parents:
    Parents and patients alike expressed higher levels of satisfaction with midline catheters compared to PIVCs. Understanding that their child is receiving more reliable and comfortable treatment can offer peace of mind to parents, while patients themselves benefit from reduced pain, improved treatment experiences, and the potential for a smoother recovery process.

The recent study conducted by Griffith University gives parents of children requiring intravenous therapy reason for optimism. By transitioning from traditional PIVCs to midline catheters, parents can provide their children with a more comfortable and successful treatment experience. With fewer complications, reduced pain and anxiety, increased treatment continuity, and higher satisfaction levels, midline catheters offer a promising solution for improving the overall well-being and care of children with PICC lines.

 

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