Catheter micromotion is a commonly discussed, yet poorly defined phenomenon that is believed to contribute to catheter failure due to abrasion of the internal lining of the vessel and blood clot formation. Although anecdotal reports of catheter micromotion causing vessel injury and peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) failure exist, no evidence exists to measure or define catheter micromotion or evaluate the importance of this. This presentation will include results of a clinical trial that measured the extent of catheter micromotion using 2D and 3D ultrasound and whether additional stabilization of the catheter hub reduced catheter micromotion, adverse events, superficial venous thrombosis, and improved patient comfort. Catheter micromotion was assessed during clinician interaction with the extension set and between AM and PM timepoints to evaluate micromotion during patients’ activities of daily living. The results of this trial are not yet analyzed and will be provided during the presentation. This trial will help to evaluate future catheter designs to reduce catheter micromotion and to assess the impact of motion on catheter patency in humans.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, learners will be able to:

• Discuss the nature of catheter micromotion; how much and in what directions the catheter moves inside the vein

• Describe the importance of catheter micromotion on vascular injury and thrombosis and determine whether additional stabilization of catheter hubs have the potential to reduce motion during clinician use

• Determine whether additional stabilization of catheter hubs have the potential to reduce motion during activities of daily living

• Assess whether new devices have the potential to reduce micromotion and improve patient outcomes (ie, catheter dwell time and failure)

Contact Hours: 1
CRNI® RUs: 2