“JUST IN CASE”. USE OF LARGE BORE PERIPHERAL INTRAVENOUS CATHETERS IN PARTURIENT WOMEN: A GLOBAL STUDY.
ABSTRACT
Objective:
The aim of the current study was to map a global picture of the practice of inserting large bore IV catheters in in parturient women.
Methods:
We analysed a sub-set of data from a prospective, multi-centre, international prevalence study, the ‘One Million Global’ peripheral intravenous catheter study. Obstetric cohort was drawn from 163 maternity units in 35 countries (1477 women, 1577 catheters) and was collected between 1 June 2014 and 31 July 2015. Clinicians at each of the participating sites collected data using tools that had been previously validated. Results are reported as frequencies and proportions.
Results:
Overall, 42% of all peripheral intravenous catheters were large bore and of all catheters placed in females in obstetric units; 438 (70%) of these were placed in the hand or wrist. The phlebitis rate was higher in the large bore group (12%) compared with those with smaller catheters (7%). Only 2% of women received blood products but it was unclear which catheter was used for this purpose.
Conclusion:
Peripheral large bore IV catheters are over-used for vascular access in parturient women. They are painful and may cause vascular damage. If there is no indication, a catheter should not be placed at all.