title: Promoting safe IV management in practice using H.A.N.D.S.
abstract: The aim of this article is to promote best practice for the insertion and care of intravascular (IV) devices. The H.A.N.D.S. acronym was created to serve as an aide memoire to general and specialist nurses regarding the 5 key interventions to prevent catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs). In order to promote safe and evidence-based practice in IV therapy a practical guide with clinical information about common IV procedures has been developed. This article provides back-to-basics guidance on how to deliver IV therapy safely and effectively.
authors.affiliation: Intravascular Practitioner, (King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust).
authors.forename: Angela
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Frimpong
authors.forename: Jennifer
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Caguioa
authors.forename: Genevi
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Octavo
mesh_terms: D000985:Antisepsis; D055499:Catheter-Related Infections / Q000517:prevention & control; D002406:Catheterization, Peripheral / Q000592:standards*; D002985:Clinical Protocols; D004282:Documentation; D006235:Hand Disinfection; D006801:Humans; D008499:Medical Records; D016602:Needlestick Injuries / Q000517:prevention & control; D009732:Nursing Care / Q000592:standards*; D062666:Vascular Access Devices
keywords: CVC dressing; Cannulation; Care bundle; Catheter related bloodstream infection; IV drug administration; IV safety; Infection prevention; Standardisation; Vascular access device