BECTON, DICKINSON AND COMPANY The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate the processes, uses and outcomes of using the BD PowerGlide Pro Midline Catheters for the purpose of blood collection for laboratory analysis. The aims of this study were to: 1. Evaluate the rate of hemolysis (the rupture or destruction of red blood cells) when the midline catheter was used for blood collection; 2. Evaluate outcomes from using midline catheters for blood collection in the acute care setting (such as catheter performance during blood sampling, dwell time) and 3. Evaluate nurse perceptions and practices used for withdrawing blood specimens from the midline catheter.
Findings indicated that blood withdrawal from the BD PowerGlide Pro Midline Catheter had low rates of hemolysis, increased dwell time (the length of time the catheter remains in the body) and completion of therapy. This option may reduce need for direct venipuncture in patients who have midline catheters with ongoing or frequent blood collection for testing, which may reduce the number of venipunctures for patients during their hospital stay. Fewer needlesticks can reduce complications and lead to greater patient satisfaction.
The investigator-initiated study titled 'Evaluation of Processes, Outcomes and Use of Midline Peripheral Catheters for the Purpose of Blood Collection' was conducted by
'In this study, our findings demonstrated that blood samples were successfully withdrawn from this type of midline catheter with very low rates of hemolysis,' commented
This investigator-initiated study used a prospective, observational and mixed methods design at a single site hospital,
This was the first known exploratory study to evaluate use and outcomes of midline catheters for blood collection in a single, acute care hospital.
Midline intravenous catheters have been in clinical use since the 1950s and are commonly used as an alternative for intravenous (IV) access to short peripheral IV catheters and central venous access devices. Use of midline catheters are associated with lower phlebitis rates and infections than are central venous catheters (CVCs) and can be inserted without the need for radiologic verification. Indications for using midline catheters are to administer intravenous medications and infusions up to 30 days, recommended when treatment is anticipated for five to six days or for long-term therapy in patients with limited IV access. In addition to midline catheter use for infusions and medication administration, using the midline catheter for blood collection has been included as an indication for all patient types.
'Using the midline catheters for blood draws with sufficient blood quality with less venipunctures required may increase patient satisfaction, which needs more systematic investigations,' said
While studies have been reported on outcomes of use with midline catheters, such as dwell time, complications, completion of therapy and recommended processes for maintenance and administration of fluids and medications, little was known or reported about procedures for blood collections or outcomes from performance for this function.
About the BD PowerGlide Pro Midline Catheter
As a fully integrated placement device, the BD PowerGlide Pro Midline Catheter is designed to be a simplified solution for peripheral IV therapy. The PowerGlide Pro Midline Catheter is designed to help increase both patient and clinician satisfaction by: (1) Allowing catheter dwell time for up to 29 days, potentially reducing the need for multiple peripheral IVs; (2) supplying a guidewire designed to assist with insertion success and (3) offering a longer body-softening polyurethane catheter to help minimize vessel wall trauma.
The PowerGlide Pro Midline Catheter is inserted into a patient's vascular system for short-term use (
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