Authors

Raquel Santirso Fernández1, Cristina Otero Jimeno2

Position

1Diplomada en Enfermería. Servicio Urgencias Generales. Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro Majadahonda. Madrid (España)2Máster por la Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM). Servicio Urgencias Generales. Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro Majadahonda. Madrid (España)

Contact address

Cristina Otero Jimeno. C/ María de Maeztu, 116. 28049. Madrid.

Contact email: maria.jimeno@salud.madrid.org

Abstract

In order to manage the venous resource of the patient safely and with responsibility, it is necessary to increase the quality of care provided, unifying and standardizing performance criteria, always based on the best scientific evidence. Emergency Unit nurses must apply evidence in their use of the peripherally inserted central venous catheter (PICC), they must know the protocol approved by the Patient Care Management in their hospital and, most of all, must avoid variability of action, which could increase the risks associated with healthcare as well as mistrust by patients. It is extremely important to keep an updated knowledge and to promote the acquisition of clinical practice skills, in order to guarantee quality care in the use of this type of catheters; the level of compliance of the evidence collected in the hospital protocols must be confirmed periodically. Nurses face the challenge of being updated in the management of vascular accesses, and must give response with seriousness and evidence to the care needed by their patients. This manuscript sets out objectively the need for continuous training and qualification for professionals regarding the adequate use of PICC.

Keywords:

Peripheral access central catheter; central venous line; nursing care; patient safetyevidence-based practice.

Versión en Español

Título:

Manejo de PICC en el Servicio de Urgencias de un hospital universitario