title: IV cannula securement: protecting the patient from infection.
abstract: The use of venous cannulas to administer intravenous therapy is a common clinical intervention within the hospital setting. Once in situ, IV cannulas must be securely fixed in order to prevent their movement or displacement; as unsecured cannulas pose significant health risks, such as mechanical phlebitis and an increased risk of infection. This article explores some of the complications associated with inappropriately secured IV cannulas, along with a discussion on common securement devices.
authors.affiliation: Chartered Biologist and Senior Lecturer, Critical Care Physiology, Faculty of Health, Sport & Science, University of South Wales.
authors.forename: Ray
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Higgingson
mesh_terms: D002404:Catheterization / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D017053:Infection Control / Q000379:methods*; D010689:Phlebitis / Q000517:prevention & control
keywords: Infection control; Mechanical phlebitis; Nursing; Tube securement