Peripheral vascular catheters, frequently referred to as peripheral intravenous (PIV) catheters, are commonly used in health care. Often, PIVs are inserted upon admission as a matter of course, in case the patient needs intravenous therapy at a later point. However, PIVs can expose patients to a significant risk of infection—one that is underreported, under-recognized, and often ignored. Tracing infections back to the PIV can be difficult, because health care workers tend to overestimate their safety. Increased awareness of PIV catheter-related infections, coupled with routine active surveillance and follow-up reporting, can help reduce the risk. This session will highlight the incidence and severity of PIV infection as well as mitigation strategies.

Learning Outcomes: 

At the conclusion of this session, attendees will be able to describe the infection risks associated with PIV catheters and strategies to mitigate infection.