Near-Infrared Informed Huddle for Neonatal Peripheral Intravenous Catheterization: A Pre-Post-Intervention Study.

PURPOSE: Implement and evaluate near-infrared (NIR) huddles for neonatal peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) insertion.

METHODS

An implementation project investigated PIVC insertion attempts, site, inserter designation, dwell, and complications during 3 phases (baseline, education, and implementation). Implementation consisted of planning insertion site(s) and attempt frequency with an NIR device huddle. The primary effectiveness outcome was first-time insertion success. Secondary outcomes included: PIVC completion/failure, failure reason, complications. Implementation outcomes were compliance, utility, and acceptability. The association between study phase and primary outcome was assessed using logistic regression. Exploratory analyses investigated intrinsic and extrinsic risks for PIVC insertion failure.

RESULTS

Over 5 months, data from 248 (33%) neonates with 771 admissions was collected. Fifty-nine (24%) neonates required multiple PIVCs; resulting in 370 cannulations (n = 94 baseline, n = 55 education, and n = 221 intervention phases). Median birthweight was 2909 grams (IQR 2033-3499), gestation was 37.3 weeks (IQR 33.9-38.9). Length of stay, weight, gestation, and previous PIVC events were similar across phases. Insertion success was lower during education (n = 15, 39.5%) than baseline (n = 29, 56.9%), but differences were not significant. Acceptability of huddle process was higher (mean = 7.5/10, SD 2.2) than NIR device (mean = 5.0/10, SD 3.7). First time insertion failure was higher for forearm compared to hand/wrist (OR 5.94; 95% CI 1.22-28.87).

CONCLUSION

The implementation of NIR-huddle failed to improve first-time insertion success, but PIVC dwell time and documentation were improved. Further research is needed to minimize harm and improve neonatal vascular access preservation.