Linear Health Sciences Publishes Whitepaper Examining IV Dislodgement

Linear Health Sciences, a medical device company that has developed a proprietary, breakaway safety valve platform, today announced the publication of a new whitepaper on accidental dislodgement of IV catheter lines.

The paper, "Hiding in Plain Sight: The Impact and Safety Risks Associated with Accidental Dislodgement," was written by Nancy Moureau, PhD, RN, CRNI, CPUI, VA-BC, a widely recognized expert in clinical vascular access. The report details the scope of the IV dislodgement problem, the consequences faced by patients and the healthcare system, and how the Orchid SRV tension-activated breakaway safety release valve solves the unmet need.

The Orchid SRV is a sterile, single-use connector for needle-free access that makes return to treatment fast, simple, and clean, and improves both the patient and clinician experience. Clinical simulation testing of 360 Orchid SRVs showed that the device prevented IV dislodgement by 91.9 percent across all test groups. The device is placed between the existing IV extension set and general IV tubing connection intended to be used for delivery of fluids to and from an IV catheter.

"Accidental dislodgement is a serious, yet largely preventable complication associated with IV catheters. Catheter failure, treatment delays, injury, and the need for IV device replacements can result in extended hospital stays and significantly raise healthcare costs," Moureau said. "Orchid SRV is a cost effective, easy-to-use device that represents an effective solution for addressing the clinical challenge of accidental IV device dislodgements in acute and at-home settings."

Catheter failure resulting from accidental dislodgement can lead to loss of venous access, treatment delays, and the need to replace the IV catheter and any associated treatments.¹ In addition to those negative impacts on patients, delayed treatment and medication waste can lead to prolonged, costly hospitalizations and increased financial burden on the healthcare system.^2,3,4

The Orchid SRV has received an Innovative Technology contract from Vizient, Inc., the nation's largest member-driven healthcare performance improvement company, and was recently awarded a national group purchasing agreement for the IV Therapy - Needleless Connectors category with Premier, Inc. Additionally, Linear Health Sciences was awarded a Federal Supply Schedule with VA/Department of Defense access contract by the U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs (VA).

About Linear Health Sciences

Linear Health Sciences is a medical device company that has developed a proprietary, breakaway safety valve technology designed to improve the use of medical tubing in hospitals. The platform technology was developed to increase the safety and satisfaction of patients, caregivers, and healthcare facilities, while dramatically reducing costs. The company's initial products include the Orchid SRV for use in IV catheter therapy and the Orchid SRV Type D device for use in surgical/wound, nephrostomy and abscess drainage. For more information, visit linearsciences.com.

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¹ Moureau N. Impact and safety associated with accidental dislodgement of vascular access devices: a survey of professions, settings, and devices. Journal of the Association for Vascular Access. 2018;23(4):203-15.
² Brunelli SM, Turenne W, Sibbel S, Hunt A, Pfaffle A. Clinical and economic burden of bloodstream infections in critical care patients with central venous catheters. J Crit Care. 2016;35:69-74.
³ Cowl CT, Weinstock JV, Al-Jurf A, Ephgrave K, Murray JA, Dillon K. Complications and cost associated with parenteral nutrition delivered to hospitalized patients through either subclavian or peripherally-inserted central catheters. Clin Nutr. 2000;19:237-243.
⁴ Dychter SS, Gold DA, Carson D, Haller M. Intravenous therapy: a review of complications and economic considerations of peripheral access. J Infus Nurs. 2012;35:84-91.