The use of in-line intravenous filters in sick newborn infants.
OBJECTIVE
This study assesses the improvement in outcome for newborn infants by decreasing major complications associated with intravenous fluid therapy by using an in-line filter, and evaluates the economical impact this might have in relation to daily changing of i.v. lines.


METHODS
In a prospective controlled study, 88 infants were randomly assigned to receive either filtered (except for lipids, blood and blood products) or non-filtered infusions via a central catheter. Main outcome measures such as bacteraemia, phlebitis, extravasation, thrombosis, septicaemia and necrosis were all scored. The costs attributable to patients during a standard 8-day stay were also recorded.


RESULTS
Significant reductions were found in major complications such as thrombi and clinical sepsis (control group (21), filter group (8); p < 0.05). Bacterial cultures of the filters showed a contamination rate on the upstream surface of 15/109 filters (14%). The mean costs of disposables were less in the filter group, showing a reduction from 31.17 euros to 23.79 euros.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of this in-line filter leads to a significant decrease in major complications and substantial cost savings.
van Lingen
R A
RA
Department of Paediatrics Princess Amalia, Isala Clinics, Zwolle, The Netherlands. r.a.van.lingen@isala.nl
Baerts
W
W
Marquering
A C M
AC
Ruijs
G J H M
GJ
D002405:Catheterization, Central Venous; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007234:Infant, Premature; D007262:Infusions, Intravenous / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D007363:Intensive Care Units, Neonatal / Q000191:economics; D005791:Patient Care / Q000191:economics; D011014:Pneumonia / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012127:Respiratory Distress Syndrome, Newborn / Q000150:complications / Q000451:nursing / Q000628:therapy*; D018805:Sepsis / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy