62: Intravenous Peripheral Cannula Re-sites

Developing a Research Base for Intravenous Peripheral Cannula Re-sites ($67,469)

Associate Professor Claire Rickard

Peripheral intravenous catheters (IV drips) are the most commonly inserted medical device in the world. Many hospitals remove perfectly well functioning catheters after 72-96 hours of use and replace them with a new catheter (re-site) Historically this was necessary to avoid infection even though it caused patient discomfort and increased both staff time and equipment costs. Recent studies suggest that routine re-site may be unnecessary. This study will be the first large randomised controlled trial to evaluate the necessity for routine catheter re-site.

We have successfully completed a pilot study (published in the International Journal of Nursing Studies, 2006) and we are now seeking funding to undertake a larger multi-site trial in Tasmania (based in the Clifford Craig Trust Research Centre) and Queensland. This funding application is to cover costs in Launceston only.