Understanding the Risks of Blood Exposure During IV Cannulation

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Publish date: Jan 25, 2025

Understanding the Risks of Blood Exposure During IV Cannulation


As hospital nurses, you are all too familiar with the routine task of inserting peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs). While this is one of the most common invasive procedures performed in hospitals, it also poses significant risks of blood exposure, which can have serious implications for both healthcare workers and patients.

The Risks Involved

During the insertion, management, and removal of IV catheters, nurses are at risk of coming into contact with patients' blood. Studies have shown that up to 46% of blood exposure incidents occur during insertion, and up to 42% during removal of IV catheters. Despite the frequency of these exposures, it's concerning that up to 69% of such events go unreported. Blood exposure can transmit infections and lead to severe health complications. Pathogens such as HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C are some of the most concerning viruses that can be transmitted through blood contact. The emotional toll on healthcare workers after exposure can also be significant, encompassing anxiety and stress over potential infection.

Mitigating the Risks

To minimize these risks, it is crucial to use safety-engineered devices and follow best practices for IV catheter management. Devices equipped with blood control technology, can significantly reduce the risk of blood exposure. These devices are designed to shield healthcare workers from blood splatter and leakage during the insertion and removal processes. Additionally, proper training on the use of these devices and regular refreshers on safety protocols play a vital role in protecting healthcare workers. Ensuring that all incidents of blood exposure are reported is also critical, as it helps healthcare facilities to monitor and improve safety measures.

Key Points to Remember

1. Use Safety-Engineered Devices: Opt for IV catheters with blood control technology to reduce exposure risks.

2. Follow Safety Protocols: Adhere strictly to safety guidelines during the insertion, management, and removal of IV catheters.

3. Report All Exposures: Ensure that every incident of blood exposure is reported to help improve safety protocols.

Conclusion

The task of IV cannulation, while routine, carries significant risks that must not be underestimated. By using advanced safety-engineered devices and adhering to strict safety protocols, the risk of blood exposure can be minimized, protecting both healthcare workers and patients from potential infections. As we observe IV Nurses Day, let's renew our commitment to safety and continual learning to enhance our practices and protect our health.

This blog post is written by Pankaj Raina, Medical Affairs Leader, aiming to provide valuable insights and information to hospital nurses on important safety topics.

Stay safe and stay informed!

*Published on IV Nurses Day, 2025*

References:

  1. Jagger J, Perry J, Parker G, Phillips EK. Blood exposure risk during IV catheter insertion and removal. Nursing. 2011;41(12):45-49.
  2. European Biosafety Network. Prevention from sharp Injuries in the hospital and healthcare sector. European Biosafety Network Implementation Guidance Toolkit for EU Council Directive 2010/32/EU. https://www.europeanbiosafetynetwork.eu/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/EBN-Toolkit-2011.pdf. Accessed April 22, 2021.
  3. de Jager P, Zungu M, Dyers RE. Economic evaluation of safety engineered devices and training in reducing needlestick injuries among healthcare workers in South Africa. S Afr Med J. 2018;108(6):477-483.
  4. Ongete G, Duffy F. The impact of occupational splash, sharps and needlestick injuries (SSNIs) on the quality of life of healthcare workers in a Kenyan university hospital. Work. 2018;59(1):103-119.
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