The Importance of Skin Integrity Maintaining skin integrity is an important part of infection prevention throughout patient care. Skin is the body’s first line of defense, acting as a barrier to prevent harmful bacteria from entering the body. When this barrier is disrupted, pathogens can enter through the site of injury and cause infections.1 Skin…
DetailsThe BEST Endotracheal Tube (ETT) Securement Method is RevealedEndotracheal Tube (ETT) Stabilization Endotracheal intubation is a common lifesaving procedure. ETT placement can occur in operating rooms, intensive care units (ICUs), or emergency departments. It is important to ensure ETTs are properly secured to prevent displacement.1 ETT dislodgment can lead to potentially life-threatening complications such as…
DetailsMidline Catheters: Past, Present and Future Midline catheters are multi-faceted devices that offer the potential for reduced complication rates compared to other vascular access options. Midline catheters may be appropriate for venous access in patients who: Need prolonged IV therapy Have challenging vascular anatomy due to age or medical history Recent dynamics in the healthcare…
DetailsEloquest Healthcare is excited to welcome back Jo Ann Brooks PhD, RN, FAAN, FCCP to the Eloquest Healthcare Blog! Dr. Jo Ann Brooks is a Healthcare Quality Consultant who retired in 2018 from Indiana University Health where she was System Vice President of Quality & Safety. In this role, she was responsible for oversight of…
DetailsVascular Access is the most prevalent invasive medical procedure. While serious consequences can occur with this common procedure, ensuring optimal outcomes is possible. Matthew Gibson, RN, CRNI, VA-BC, CPUI recently presented a three-part Wednesday Workshop series, “Stop Struggling with Vascular Access Device Outcomes”. It is Matt’s mission to improve vascular access and infusion practices and…
DetailsAccording to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 6 in 10 adults in the U.S. have a chronic disease and 4 in 10 have two or more. Chronic diseases are conditions that last one year or more. They also require ongoing medical attention and may limit daily activities. The limitations that come along…
DetailsLeft Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) Associated Complications LVADs are the standard of care for patients with advanced heart failure. LVAD placement is a relatively common procedure, with more than 2,000 LVAD implants recorded each year over the past ten years in the United States alone.1 Complications that LVAD patients may experience during treatment include severe…
Details3 Questions with Jon Bell, RN, MSN, VA-BC 3 Questions With… features some of the finest thought leaders in healthcare specialties such as Infection Prevention, Vascular Access, Surgical Care and more. These experts answer questions on the latest insights, evidence and current practices. For our newest “3 Questions With…” vlog, Eloquest Healthcare is proud to…
DetailsVascular Access Device Securement and Dislodgement Most patients will require some form of vascular access care during their hospital stay. In fact, it has been reported that intravenous (IV) access is needed for 60%-90% of acute care patients seen across the nation.1 Best practice guidelines are followed to maximize quality of patient care. These guidelines…
DetailsProper securement is an important component of vascular access device care. There are many options available for securement of intravascular catheters, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The goal of these securement methods is to ensure continued device function and avoid complications associated with motion, such as phlebitis, thrombosis, and infection. Securement methods should…
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