Listservers:
I've just worked extensively with the practice council, procedure committee,
procurement, center for organizational development and representatives of
numerous pt care areas to develop a comprehensive IV care package. One of the
procedures was on dressing IVs and specified that no unsterile tape was to be
used, and that a sterile dressing needed to be applied. When this was
questioned by the outpatient areas (Iv is only left in for 10 ments for
photovoltaic therapy or ct or whatever), I reiterated the need for infection
control, and for consistency....when you go to UVA and have your IV started,
you can expect it to be started this way and dressed this way. I am now being
asked for studies on infection rates in outpatient areas with nonsterile
dressing practices......any suggestions?
I believe strongly in evidence based practice, and try to practice what I
preach.....but I'm feeling that common sense has left the building....
Sandra L. Schwaner MSN, RN, ACNP
P.O. Box 800377
Angiography/ Interventional Radiology
University of Vriginia
Office: 434-924-9401 - 434-243-7081
Fax: 434-982-6468
Pager # 6180
