Extended Dwell PIV Catheter Description
Neo Medical’s extended dwell catheter is an alternative to the standard PIV catheter, and the peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) typically used in the neonatal intensive care unit. The EPIV was designed for short-term use (less than 30 days) and is a short single lumen silicone catheter in either 6cm or 8cm length depending on the neonate’s size. Inserted in a peripheral vein on the forearm or leg, the EPIV catheter provides continuous medication therapy, fluids, or nutrition for up to 29 days. Initial research results show encouraging results using the EPIV with neonates with a birth weight of more than 1500 g.
Extended Dwell Peripheral Catheter Advantages
Early studies show that the neonatal extended dwell peripheral intravenous (EPIV) catheter provides a comparatively longer dwell time (9 days vs. 3) than a conventional PIV catheter and a higher percentage of EPIV catheters stay in for the duration of treatment with neonatal patients (even those with very low birth weight). Unlike PIV catheter placement, an extended dwell peripheral catheter does not require an x-ray film for confirmation. EPIV research trials also show fewer cannulation attempts than with PIV catheters in neonates. Researchers witnessed a 57% success rate with EPIV in neonates and observed fewer hyaluronidase treated IV fluid extravasation incidences than patients with PIV catheters. No life-threatening complications or infections resulted from the use of EPIV.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a central venous catheter and what is it used for?
A CV catheter is a tube placed in the patient’s arm or leg to supply medication, fluids, blood, and nutrition intravenously. These catheters can remain in for days or weeks and provide immediate treatment.
What types of catheters are available for neonates?
There are three main types of catheters used for neonatal patients: peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC), peripheral intravenous (PIV) catheter and the extended dwell peripheral intravenous (EPIV) catheter.
Who uses neonatal catheters?
Hospitals, doctors, and nurses use them most often in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
