Securing Pediatric Peripheral IV Catheters—Application of an Evidence-Based Practice Model 1

Peripheral intravenous catheter (PIV) insertion is a traumatic experience for children and should not be repeated more frequently than necessary. Proper securement of pediatric IVs can preserve catheter life; however, little evidence is available to describe optimal methods. Pediatric nurses at a 246-bed, community-owned district hospital observed they were frequently attempting to rescue or restart PIVs prematurely. In the context of exemplary professional practice, an exploratory evidence-based practice project was designed to increase knowledge about the best practices in maintaining and preserving pediatric PIVs. Data collection and analysis determined that practices were inconsistent and more research is needed to determine the optimal securement practices.