Background: Peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) are widely used within healthcare settings. There is substantial hospital-based research, particularly in Emergency Departments, supporting the need to reduce inappropriate PIVCs due to associated risks. However, there is limited research into pre-hospital practice. This review aims to determine the rates of pre-hospital PIVC insertions, how many remain unused, and to explore paramedic PIVC decision-making.
Methods: A systematic search of research databases was undertaken using an integrative review methodology. Articles published between 2011 and April 2022 were included. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool was used to assess the quality of the studies.
Results: Fifteen studies were included. Rates of PIVC insertions ranged from 21% to 58%. Up to 72% of PIVCs remained unused in the pre-hospital setting. Paramedic decision-making was not well reported, though erring of the side of caution and inserting a "just in case" PIVC was identified.
Conclusion: There are limited articles on pre-hospital PIVC practice, particularly in Australian settings. Research is required to understand factors influencing practice and provide contemporary evidence to inform the development of guidance specific to the pre-hospital setting to reduce the numbers of inappropriate PIVCs.
Keywords: Ambulance; Emergency medical technicians; Paramedic; Peripheral intravenous catheter; Vascular access device.
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