Needleless intravenous (IV) access devices were initially introduced into clinical practice to reduce the rate of IV catheter-related needlestick injuries. Their efficacy for this purpose has been confirmed in subsequent reports. However, since their introduction approximately 15 years ago there have been conflicting reports about the risk of IV catheter-related bloodstream infection. This article reviews the risk of catheter-related bloodstream infection associated with needleless IV access devices and outlines the types of needleless IV access devices available.
Nursing Standard. 22, 11, 38-44. doi: 10.7748/ns2007.11.22.11.38.c6240
Correspondence Peer reviewThis article has been subject to double blind peer review
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