title: The effects of needleless connectors on catheter-related thrombotic occlusions.
abstract: Needleless connectors have been introduced into clinical practice to prevent accidental needlestick injuries and associated bloodborne infections. Needleless connectors include the split-septum devices and the mechanical valves that are classified as neutral-, negative-, and positive-displacement types on the basis of their internal membrane or valve function. Some studies have reported that mechanical valves, especially positive-displacement valves, may decrease thrombotic catheter occlusions based on their valve function that prevents blood reflux into the intravascular catheter. This article describes the types of needleless connectors and reviews the evidence related to their effects on thrombotic catheter occlusions.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pharmacy Services, University of Michigan Hospitals and Health Centers, 1500 E Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA. imadb@umich.edu
authors.forename: Imad F
authors.initials: IF
authors.lastname: Btaiche
authors.forename: Debra S
authors.initials: DS
authors.lastname: Kovacevich
authors.forename: Nabil
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Khalidi
authors.forename: Lorelei F
authors.initials: LF
authors.lastname: Papke
mesh_terms: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage; D002405:Catheterization, Central Venous / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004866:Equipment Contamination; D006801:Humans; D007262:Infusions, Intravenous / Q000009:adverse effects*; D016602:Needlestick Injuries / Q000517:prevention & control*; D013923:Thromboembolism / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control
chemical_list: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents