A Vascular Access Pathway to Decrease Computed Tomography Contrast Extravasations in Emergency Department Patients

Abstract

Aim: This evidence-based project aimed to create a pathway tool for emergency department staff to utilize during peripheral intravenous (PIV) placement to decrease patient harm secondary to iodinated contrast media extravasations in patients requiring contrast administration. Methods: A literature review was conducted and utilized to create a vascular access intervention pathway for emergency department clinicians to utilize during PIV placement. The pathway was displayed in the emergency department for clinicians to reference. Results: The results presented a decrease in iodinated contrast media extravasations by 17% in emergency department patients over a six-month implementation period. Conclusion: The created vascular access pathway tool could help improve patient satisfaction scores and prevent patient harm secondary to computed tomography.