Learning Center
A Systematic Review of Needleless Connector Function and Occlusion Outcomes
Includes a Live Web Event on 04/28/2025 at 11:00 AM (EDT)
There is increasing evidence on the function of needleless connectors (NC) and the amount of displacement of fluid and blood into and out of an NC. Published research provides evidence of how the pressure-activated diaphragms control displacement in NCs and how blood reflux and intraluminal occlusions are limited by these functions. Catheter loss of patency is a common problem exceeding 30% with peripheral and central catheters. In video format, blood flow around a catheter, flushing and valve function will be demonstrated as it relates to normal physiologic reflux in and around the tip of the catheter. The presentation will present the results of a systematic review on anti-reflux connectors and discuss the clinical impact leading to practice changes.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, learners will be able to:
• Evaluate the evidence associated with the science and function of needleless connectors
• Describe the impact of pressure on fluid movement and normal patient activities
• Discuss loss of patency and how control of reflux can reduce complications
Contact Hours: 1
CRNI® RUs: 2
Lisa Gorski, MS, RN, HHCNS-BC, CRNI®, FAAN
Lisa Gorski, MS, RN, HHCNS-BC, CRNI®, FAAN, has worked for more than 35 years as a clinical nurse specialist (CNS) and educator for Wheaton Franciscan Home Health and Hospice, which is now Ascension at Home. As a CNS, she developed a home infusion therapy program in collaboration with the pharmacy and continues to provide infusion-related education for home care nurses as well as direct patient care. Ms Gorski received both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee College of Nursing. She is the author of several books and more than 7 book chapters and journal articles. She is an INS past president (2007-2008), past Chair of the Infusion Nurses Certification Corporation (INCC) Board of Directors and has served as the chair of the INS Standards of Practice Committee for the 2011, 2016, and 2021 editions and Co-Chair for the 2024 Standards. Ms Gorski was also the Chair for the 2017 and 2024 INS Vesicant Task Force. She was inducted as a fellow into the American Academy of Nursing in 2006, named the CRNI® of the year by INCC, and named 2011 CNS of the Year by the National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists. Ms Gorski speaks nationally and internationally on standards development, infusion therapy/vascular access, and home health care. Over the years, she has addressed the Standards in multiple presentations in the US, China, Europe, and Middle Eastern African and Latin American countries.
Nancy Moureau, PhD, RN, CRNI®, CPUI™, VA-BC
Nancy Moureau, PhD, RN, CRNI®, CPUI, VA-BC, is a globally recognized leader and the founder of PICC Excellence, Inc., a premier provider of education on infusion therapy and vascular access device (VAD) insertion and care for over 3 years. Dr Moureau’s extensive clinical experience includes pediatric, neonatal, intensive care unit (ICU) peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC)/IV teams, and home infusion care.
As CEO of PICC Excellence, she leads the development of over 8 online educational courses and pathways, emphasizing insertion competency and evidence-based practices. Her responsibilities include education development, research, global speaking engagements, legal reviews, manufacturer consulting, and active clinical practice for peripheral and central vascular access.
Dr Moureau pioneered PICC Certification™ (CPUI™) and Neonatal PICC Credentialing (CNPI) programs, validating inserters' education and competency. Most recently, she introduced a systematic UGPIV Mastery Learning Process, an ultrasound-guided peripheral insertion toolbox that earned the Infusion Nurses Society’s (INS) Seal of Approval—the first of its kind.
To connect with Dr Moureau, visit www.piccexcellence.com, or email her at nancy@piccexcellence.com.