title: Evaluation of a needle-free intravenous access system.
abstract: Needle-stick injuries are one of the most severe hazards faced by nurses today. The most physically and emotionally devastating type of injury is from a needle contaminated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), but far more likely to occur is infection with other blood-borne pathogens, especially hepatitis B. The daily threat of needle-stick injuries adds yet another dimension of concern to the stresses inherent in working in a health care facility. Health care workers at greatest risk are those who manipulate needles and draw blood samples on a regular basis. With this concern in mind, a study was launched to evaluate a needle-free I.V. access system with respect to the following research objectives: 1) to assess the prevention/reduction of needle-stick risks and injuries; 2) to identify associated reduction in expenses; 3) to implement product and ease of use; and 4) to assess nursing satisfaction levels. This article describes the methodology used and the results of the study.
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Beason
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Bourguignon
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Fowler
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Gardner
mesh_terms: D002408:Catheters, Indwelling / Q000592:standards*; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D006801:Humans; D007262:Infusions, Intravenous / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000451:nursing; D016602:Needlestick Injuries / Q000517:prevention & control*