August 2025_IQ_FINAL

Intravascular

QUARTERLY Intravascular

QUARTERLY

Protect Patients Educate Clinicans Save Lives

Global Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the Intervascular Quarterly Newsletter are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of the Association for Vascular Access (AVA) or any of its leaders, volunteers, employees, committees, networks or otherProtect groups associated with AVA. For information on this publication, email ava@avainfo.org.

Patients • Educate Clinicians • Saveplease Lines

Protect Patients • Educate Clin

THE E-NEWS PUBLICATION OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR VASCULAR ACCESS

IQ CONTENT AVA STRATEGIC PLAN UPDATE

4

NETWORK NEWS

5

EDUCATION DEPARTMENT

6

CASE STORY

7

CLINICAL PRACTICE GUIDELINES (CPG)

10

PEDINEOSIG

12

THE ASSOCIATION FOR VASCULAR ACCESS: HISTORY, MULTIDISCIPLINARY COLLABORATION, AND CONFLICT OF INTEREST MANAGEMENT

13

INTRODUCING THE MIGHTY WELL SASH METHOD MAT, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH AVA!

17

STRATEGIC PLAN OVERVIEW 2025-2028

OUR MISSION To build interprofessional leaders in vascular access to advance knowledge, practice, advocacy & collaboration to improve outcomes.

Accessibility

Visionary

OUR VISION

CORE Accountability VALUES

A world with safe vascular access.

STRATEGIC PRIORITIES

STRATEGIES / OBJECTIVES

.

GOAL

Membership, Community & Value

Education & 4Professional Practice

-Foster an engaged dynamic community of vascular access professionals.

Inspire & deliver value to inter- -Engage, retain, & grow membership through the interprofessional community, including AVA Networks & the next generation of professional members & the health care professionals. patients they serve.

-Strengthen & support local AVA Networks.

-Build coalitions with key partners to leverage AVA’s reach & support membership value.

Innovate vascular access -Build collaborative partnerships with those who share our vision. education & collaborate to find -Meet members’ needs & protect AVA intellectual property. solutions to advance vascular -Strengthen professional practice by completing & disseminating access care. the AVA Clinical Practice Guidelines.

Marketing & Communications

Advocate to raise awareness & impact policy & change.

-Leverage the full potential of AVA to educate & raise awareness.

-Lead advocacy, policy, & public awareness in the vascular access healthcare space.

Patient Empowerment

Consistently bring the patient perspective to the work of AVA.

-Support patient education & self-advocacy on vascular access.

The AVA Board of Directors adopted this plan January 2025 and will review it annually.

INTERNAL PRIORITIES INTERNAL

Financial Management Ensure financial sustainability by diversifying revenue, fund raising, & working with AVA.

Technology & Infrastructure

Governance

Strengthen digital presence through website, marketing, advertising, & modernized membership platform.

Strengthen governance & monitor organizational performance for continuous improvement.

www.avainfo.org | ava@avainfo.org | 801-792-9079

THE E-NEWS PUBLICATION OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR VASCULAR ACCESS

NETWORK NEWS DAVID MARKLE, RN, VA-BC™, PRESIDENT AMANDA PIERCE BSN, RN, VA-BC™, TREASURER MEAGAN CAPEN, APRN, CPNP-AC, MSN, VA-BC™, PRESIDENTIAL ADVISOR FLAVAN hosted an Orlando Dinner meeting in June “Preparing for Hospital -Onset Bacteremia & Fungemia (HOB)” presented by Malachi LeVeille BSN, RN, VA-BC and sponsored by Teleflex. Our members enjoyed a lovely Maggiano’s dinner and excellent presentation that gave our members the opportunity to discuss how HOB will impact their practice and how they can support their hospital systems!

5

The Annual FLAVAN Summit, providing 5CEs, will be held on October 11, 2025 at Orlando Regional Medical Center in Orlando, Florida!

For more FLAVAN news and upcoming events please visit our website by clicking the link FLAVAN and don’t forget to like and follow us on Facebook!

AUGUST 2025 | VOLUME XII | ISSUE 6

ELEVATING EXCELLENCE: GULFVAN’S VASCULAR ACCESS SUMMIT

On May 10, 2025, the Florida Gulf Coast Vascular Access Network (GulfVAN) hosted its annual allday Vascular Access Summit titled “Elevating Excellence” at Tampa General Hospital’s People’s Development Institute (39 Columbia Drive, Tampa, FL 33606). This event was accredited for 6 continuing education units (CEUs) through the Florida Board of Registered Nursing.

6

Purpose and Scope: GulfVAN, aligned with the Association for Vascular Access (AVA), serves clinicians and industry partners across West Central Florida—spanning Pasco, Hillsborough, Pinellas, Sarasota, and Polk counties. The summit aimed to elevate practitioner knowledge, enhance patient safety, and advance practice standards through evidence-based content and legislative action.

Key Sessions and Learning Objectives: a. “One Nurse, One Petition, One Step Closer to CVC Practice in Florida” – Presented by Connie Girgenti, MSN, RN, VA BC, this session outlined the clinical justification for inserting central venous catheters (CVCs) by nurses in Florida, detailed the petition process for scope expansion, and discussed strategies to navigate regulatory challenges. b. “What’s Beneath the Sheath: Minimizing Risk and Liability for Ultrasound Probe Usage” – Russ Nassof, JD, explored legal and infection control risks related to ultrasound use in vascular access, including contaminated gel and probe barriers. c. “Imaging in Vascular Access: How and When to Use It” – Gail Egan, MS, ANP C, FSIR, provided a comparative overview of imaging modalities (ultrasound, fluoroscopy, CT/CTV, MRV), contrast agent considerations, and clinical decision frameworks.

d. “Vascular Access and the Femoral Approach Throughout the Lifespan” – Matt Ostroff, AGACNP, RN, VA BC, discussed femoral access indications, contraindications, assessment tools (e.g., SIF, RaFeVA, RAVESTO), and bedside techniques applicable from neonates to critically ill adults. e. “Advanced Principles in Vascular Access” – Dennis Woo, RN, addressed sophisticated techniques such as advanced flushing protocols, catheter reflux prevention, blood aspiration optimization, and enhanced ultrasound skills. f. “Protecting Vascular Health: Reducing the Impact of Complications Using Best Practices and Catheter Materials” – Eddie Korycka, MSN, RN, VA BC, examined catheter composition, complication risk profiles, and emerging materials to inform clinician decision-making.

THE E-NEWS PUBLICATION OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR VASCULAR ACCESS

The day included vendor exhibits, indepth networking opportunities, and catered breakfast, lunch, and snacks.

• A notable component was the petition drive led by GulfVAN leadership to demonstrate clinician support for expanding scope of practice in Florida, with outreach efforts yielding petition signatures even before the summit.

INTERPROFESSIONAL COLLABORATION AND LEADERSHIP The success of the summit was a testament to the strength of interorganizational collaboration.

Leadership and volunteers from the Florida Association for Vascular Access Networks (FLAVAN) and the Gulf Coast Infusion Nurses Society (INS) provided invaluable support throughout the day. Their contributions helped ensure seamless operations, from registration and vendor coordination to session moderation and participant engagement. This spirit of collaboration underscored the importance of uniting regional vascular access leaders in pursuit of shared clinical and educational goals.

AUGUST 2025 | VOLUME XII | ISSUE 6

7

ENGAGEMENT AND ADVOCACY In addition to didactic sessions, the summit included vendor exhibits, catered meals, and a petition initiative aimed at regulatory change in Florida nursing practice.

The petition, spearheaded by GulfVAN leaders, sought support for legislation allowing registered nurses to insert central lines, demonstrating the summit’s dual commitment to education and advocacy.

8

CONCLUSION GulfVAN’s “Elevating Excellence” summit exemplified the power of professional collaboration in elevating practice standards, supporting legislative progress, and fostering a shared vision for excellence in vascular access. The event’s success was amplified by the dedicated leadership of FLAVAN and Gulf Coast INS, who modeled the value of unified networks working collectively to improve patient outcomes across the continuum of care.

THE E-NEWS PUBLICATION OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR VASCULAR ACCESS

9

AUGUST 2025 | VOLUME XII | ISSUE 6

CLINICAL PRACTICE GUIDELINES (CPG) ANTONIA SOCHOR, BSN, RN, VA-BCTM ASSOCIATION FOR VASCULAR ACCESS As many of you know, the Association for Vascular Access (AVA) is in the final stages of developing Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs) for vascular access. These guidelines were created in response to a question we hear often: “What does AVA say?” Informed by a systematic review of the literature and developed by a dedicated team of 26 subject matter expert volunteers, the CPGs are intended to provide clear, evidence-based guidance on key clinical considerations in vascular access.

It is important to note that these guidelines are not intended to replace or contradict existing resources from other organizations. Rather, they are designed to serve as a complementary tool—one that clinicians, educators, and industry partners can use alongside other foundational documents to support informed decision-making and standardize best practices.

We anticipate releasing the document for public review in September, with an exact date to be announced soon. Your thoughtful feedback will be essential as we move toward final publication.

10

In advance of the public review period, we would like to take a moment to clarify several recurring themes that have emerged during earlier rounds of internal and external feedback. These include terminology choices, reference limitations, and alignment with international standards.

Midline Catheters: There is currently variability in terminology across organizations. The Infusion Nurses Society (INS) refers to midline catheters as “ML,” while the WoCoVA NAVIGATE document uses the acronym “MC.” For the purposes of the Clinical Practice Guidelines, we will adopt the acronym PML, which stands for peripheral midline. This decision is intended to promote clearer understanding among end users, particularly those who may not specialize in vascular access and who may mistakenly refer to these devices as “short PICCs.” Additional rationale and explanation for this terminology can be found in the Editor’s Message in the Fall issue of The Journal of the Association for Vascular Access (JAVA).

Totally Implanted Vascular Access Devices (TIVADs): INS currently refers to these devices as “implanted vascular access ports” and does not use an acronym. The acronym TIVAD originates from the NAVIGATE paper. Given the international scope of the Clinical Practice Guidelines, we believe that adopting this terminology promotes alignment with global standards and enhances consistency across a multidisciplinary readership.

References and Literature Inclusion: The systematic review and literature search for this document was conducted in accordance with a defined protocol that limited inclusion to studies published between 2016 and the first quarter of 2024. As a result, we were unable to incorporate more recent studies published in late 2024 and 2025. However, these resources have been noted for inclusion in future updates of the guidelines. For a full description of the evidence review methodology, please refer to the Winter 2024 issue of the JAVA.

THE E-NEWS PUBLICATION OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR VASCULAR ACCESS

Guideline Format: The citation boxes embedded throughout the document are specifically linked to the Summaries of Evidence sections that precede them. These boxes do not apply to the Clinical Considerations sections that follow. The clinical considerations represent expert interpretation and application of the evidence, contextualized through clinical experience, international guidance, and consensus. We hope this formatting distinction helps reviewers more clearly navigate the document’s structure and intent.

We are deeply grateful for the engagement and insight shared by so many professionals throughout the development of these guidelines. This work has helped shape a document that reflects both the complexity and the collaborative nature of vascular access practice. As we move into the final stages, we remain committed to transparency, evidencebased recommendations, and alignment with the broader clinical community. We look forward to your input during the upcoming public review, as your insights are invaluable to ensure the guidelines are comprehensive, clear, and clinically relevant.

THE JOURNAL OF THE

Association for Vascular Access We invite you to submit original manuscripts that may improve patient outcomes and our understanding of the vascular access specialists’ role in the healthcare system.

Manuscripts could include: • Clinical Practice • Patient Education • Clinician Education • Promoting & Sustaining Change • Vascular Access Research • Legal perspectives • Financial Considerations • Anything to move AVA’s mission forward.

For complete instructions, go to Information for Authors at www.avajournal.com If you would like some mentoring help, email AVAFoundation@avainfo.org.

The AVA Foundation board can match you with free mentoring for AVA members on research and publication.

If you have general questions or don’t know where to start, contact the JAVA editor at: javaeditor@avainfo.org.

AUGUST 2025 | VOLUME XII | ISSUE 6

11

The PediNeoSIG Executive Leadership Committee has developed comprehensive homecare education sheets designed for clinicians to utilize and tailor to their specific institution’s needs. These resources serve as standardized, adaptable tools to ensure consistency and accuracy in patient education across different settings. By customizing these sheets, clinicians can address the unique requirements of their patient populations, enhance understanding, and promote better adherence to vascular access care. Additionally, providing clinicians with tailored resources supports professional development, encourages best practices, and fosters a collaborative approach to patient care.

12

Proper knowledge helps caregivers recognize complications, understand the basics of maintaining the line, and follow correct procedures for access and hygiene. This education empowers families to confidently manage their child’s care outside the clinical setting, reducing the risk of infections, complications, and hospital readmissions. Additionally, well-informed families are more likely to adhere to care plans, feel less anxious, and be proactive in seeking help if issues arise. Ultimately, thorough discharge education supports a safe transition from hospital to home, fostering a supportive environment for the child’s recovery and ongoing health management.

If you are going to be at AVASM25 - stop by the AVA booth to get your copy!

Downloadable Files will be available on the AVA website late September.

THE E-NEWS PUBLICATION OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR VASCULAR ACCESS

THE ASSOCIATION FOR VASCULAR ACCESS: HISTORY, MULTIDISCIPLINARY COLLABORATION, AND CONFLICT OF INTEREST MANAGEMENT KRISTIN JACOBS, DNP, RN, CRNI, VA-BCTM, NEA-BC AVA BOARD OF DIRECTORS, DIRECTOR AT LARGE MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE, CHAIR LORI KACZMAREK, MSN, RN, VA-BCTM AVA BOARD OF DIRECTORS, PRESIDENT

13

We want to thank our members for recently sharing thoughtful feedback about how potential or real conflicts of interest are handled within the Association for Vascular Access (AVA). As a multidisciplinary organization that includes industry partners, we understand the importance of maintaining clear and ethical practices. Your input reinforces our shared commitment to transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership. AVA remains dedicated to open communication and to upholding the highest standards of governance in service to our community.

As a pioneering force in the field of vascular access, AVA continues to shape clinical practice, research, and education. Founded with a vision to promote excellence in vascular access care, the organization has embraced a multidisciplinary approach that reflects the complexity and collaboration inherent in our field. Our commitment to ethical integrity—especially in how we manage conflicts of interest among leadership and within educational initiatives—has helped establish AVA as a trusted authority in healthcare. This article examines how AVA integrates diverse disciplines and the robust mechanisms we employ to ensure transparency and trust.

History of the Association for Vascular Access The AVA emerged in response to the growing recognition that vascular access—encompassing the selection, insertion, maintenance, and removal of venous catheters—required specialized expertise to ensure patient safety and improve outcomes. At the time, no dedicated organization existed to support this critical area of care.

AUGUST 2025 | VOLUME XII | ISSUE 6

In 1985, Suzanne Herbst, a home infusion nurse in San Francisco, identified a significant knowledge gap and inconsistency surrounding vascular access devices (VADs). Driven by the need for improved education and standards, she established a multidisciplinary network that in 1987 became the Bay Area Vascular Access Network (BAVAN). This initiative laid the groundwork for what would evolve into a national movement.

What started as fifteen people attending the first brainstorming meeting grew to sixty-five members in the first year. By 1990, the organization had grown to 600 members. As the organization’s influence expanded, it was renamed the Association for Vascular Access (AVA) in 2003 to reflect its broader, global reach and multidisciplinary membership.

From the beginning, AVA prioritized education, research, and the development of best practice guidelines. Through annual conferences, peer-reviewed publications, and a wealth of clinical resources, AVA has fostered a collaborative community dedicated to advancing vascular access care and improving patient outcomes worldwide.

Embracing Multidisciplinary Collaboration One of AVA’s defining characteristics is its commitment to bringing together professionals from multiple disciplines. Vascular access is a field that intersects with various specialties, including nursing, medicine, pharmacy, radiology, and infection prevention, among others. AVA recognized early on that the complexities of vascular access care could not be addressed by any single profession alone.

14

Membership Diversity AVA’s membership reflects this commitment to multidisciplinary collaboration. The association welcomes nurses, physicians, pharmacists, radiologic technologists, vascular access specialists, infection preventionists, educators, researchers, manufacturers, and policy makers. By creating an inclusive environment, AVA fosters a rich exchange of ideas and experiences, ensuring that its resources and guidelines are comprehensive and applicable across clinical contexts.

Interdisciplinary Committees and Initiatives Within the organization, interdisciplinary committees and task forces work together to develop evidence-based guidelines, educational content, and advocacy initiatives.

These collaborative efforts ensure that multiple perspectives are represented in every decision, leading to well-rounded and practical solutions to contemporary vascular access challenges.

The annual AVA Scientific Meeting (AVASM) is a hallmark of this multidisciplinary approach.

The conference features presentations, workshops, and panels led by experts from diverse backgrounds, promoting dialogue and knowledge-sharing across the spectrum of vascular access professionals. This event not only serves as an educational forum but also builds professional relationships and fosters innovation.

Educational and Research Initiatives AVA supports and encourages research that bridges the gaps between disciplines. The organization provides grants, scholarships, and platforms for publishing and presenting original research. By disseminating cutting-edge findings and best practices, AVA advances the field and encourages evidence-based collaboration among all stakeholders involved in vascular access care.

THE E-NEWS PUBLICATION OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR VASCULAR ACCESS

Managing Conflict of Interest: Upholding Integrity and Trust As AVA has grown in size and influence, its commitment to ethical standards and transparency has remained a central focus. The organization acknowledges the potential for conflicts of interest (COI), particularly given the involvement of industry partners, the diversity of professional backgrounds among its board members, and the need for impartiality in its educational programs.

Conflict of Interest Policy for the Board of Directors The AVA Board of Directors is responsible for the governance and strategic direction of the association. To maintain the trust of its members and the public, AVA enforces a rigorous conflict of interest policy for all board members:

• Mandatory Disclosure: All board members are required to complete annual COI disclosure forms, reporting any relationships or financial interests that could influence their decisionmaking. This includes consulting agreements, research funding, honoraria, stock ownership, and relationships with industry partners.

• Ongoing Updates: Board members must promptly update their disclosures if new potential conflicts arise during their tenure.

• Recusal Procedures: When a conflict is identified, the affected board member must recuse themselves from discussions and votes related to the subject in question. These recusals are documented in meeting minutes for transparency.

• Periodic Review: The board periodically reviews its COI policy and procedures, making revisions as needed to address emerging ethical challenges in healthcare.

These measures help ensure that board decisions are made in the best interests of the association and its members, free from undue influence.

Conflict of Interest in Educational Presentations Educational integrity is another cornerstone of AVA’s mission. The credibility of its conferences, webinars, publications, and training programs depends on the objectivity and transparency of the content delivered. To this end, AVA has instituted comprehensive policies for managing conflicts of interest in educational presentations:

• Speaker Disclosure: All speakers, authors, and presenters must disclose any financial or personal relationships that could be perceived as influencing their content. This includes relationships with manufacturers of medical devices, pharmaceutical companies, or other relevant entities.

• Content Review: Educational materials are subject to review by independent committees to ensure that content is evidence-based, balanced, and free from commercial bias.

• Scientific Meeting Design Team (D-Team): Every year, the abstract submission process proves to be highly competitive. This year, over 100 abstracts were submitted for consideration. Each submission is anonymized and carefully evaluated by three members of the D-Team. The team then dedicates significant time to thoughtful discussion, curating a conference schedule that is both balanced and high in quality. The final program reflects a broad spectrum of relevant topics, interactive workshops, and valuable opportunities for professional development—designed with members’ growth and engagement in mind.

AUGUST 2025 | VOLUME XII | ISSUE 6

15

• Transparency for Attendees: Disclosures are communicated to attendees at the beginning of presentations and in printed/online materials, empowering participants to make informed judgments about the information presented.

• Prohibition of Commercial Influence: AVA prohibits commercial interests from dictating or controlling the content of educational activities. Sponsorships and grants are acknowledged, but they do not confer influence over educational programming.

Through these policies, AVA preserves the integrity of its educational mission while maintaining productive relationships with industry partners.

Conclusion The AVA has grown from a small group of dedicated professionals into an internationally respected organization at the forefront of vascular access care. Its inclusive, multidisciplinary approach has propelled advances in clinical practice, research, and education.

By instituting clear and robust policies for managing conflicts of interest, AVA continues to uphold the highest standards of integrity and transparency. As the field of vascular access continues to evolve, AVA’s commitment to collaboration, education, and ethical leadership ensures that it will remain a guiding force for both practitioners and patients.

16

While AVA values collaboration with industry to drive innovation, our policies are explicitly designed to safeguard against any undue influence in decision-making, governance, or educational content. We remain committed to earning and maintaining the trust of our membership.

Should you have any concerns, questions, or suggestions regarding AVA’s conflict of interest policies or procedures, we invite you to reach out. Transparency and collaboration are not just values we uphold—they are central to our growth as an organization.

Innovation in our field is often driven by industry, but it’s the collaboration between clinicians and industry partners that truly propels the profession forward.

THE E-NEWS PUBLICATION OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR VASCULAR ACCESS

INTRODUCING THE MIGHTY WELL SASH METHOD MAT, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH AVA! The SASH method is a great way to remember the steps to flushing and delivering medicine to your intravenous (IV) lines, including peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) lines, midlines, and implanted chest ports.

Each letter in SASH represents a different step in the line flushing process. SASH stands for Saline, Administer Medication, Saline, and Heparin. Remembering to use the SASH method as a guide when clearing your lines can ensure that your lines are not obstructed and lower the risk of infections.

17

Click here to get your digital download

AUGUST 2025 | VOLUME XII | ISSUE 6

Crossword Puzzle 1 2

3 4 5 6

7

8

9

10

11 12 13

14

15 16 17 18

19 20

21

18 Down: 1. process to clear impurities from blood 2. removes impurities 3.

6.

8.

10.

12.

15.

SVC and CAJ size of the needle important insertion tool Association for Vascular Access at the end of a catheter blood clot

Across: 4. carries blood to the heart 5. life fluid 7.

9.

11.

13.

14.

16.

tube used for infusions words to practice by irritation of a vein inadvertent leaking of a vesicant into tissue leaking of medication into tissue size of the catheter

17. of the vein 18. carries blood away from the heart

19. infusion professional 20. providing medications through a catheter 21. arm veins

®

Build your own custom worksheet at education.com/worksheet-generator © 2007 - 2025 Education.com

THE E-NEWS PUBLICATION OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR VASCULAR ACCESS

r e t s i Reg ! y a d o T

19

FOR VASCUL N A O I

R

CESS AC

ASSO CI AT

September 19-21 Pre-Meeting Sept. 18 Kissimmee, FL

The mission of AVA is to build interprofessional leaders in vascular access to advance knowledge, practice, advocacy, and collaboration to improve outcomes.

avainfo.org/annual #AVASM25 AUGUST 2025 | VOLUME XII | ISSUE 6

Crossword Puzzle D

1 2

F

C

I

3

I

V E

4

L

N

T

I N

A

B L O O D

5

T

C A T H E T E R R

Y

U

7

A

P H L E B

11

I

L

T

R

9

I

10

I

V

S

A

E X T R A V A S A T

I N F

I

L T R A T 15

H

S

I O N

V A S C U L A R

O

M I N F U S

20

16

D

18

I

S

N

F R E N C H C

O

B S

E

A R T E R Y

N U R S E

19

I O N

P E R

21

C

I O N

G

N

U

N

17

U

12

13

14

G

6

S T A N D A R D S

8

P H E R A L

20 Down: 1. process to clear impurities from blood 2. removes impurities 3.

6.

8.

10.

12.

15.

SVC and CAJ size of the needle important insertion tool Association for Vascular Access at the end of a catheter blood clot

Across: 4. carries blood to the heart 5. life fluid 7.

9.

11.

13.

14.

16.

tube used for infusions words to practice by irritation of a vein inadvertent leaking of a vesicant into tissue leaking of medication into tissue size of the catheter

17. of the vein 18. carries blood away from the heart

19. infusion professional 20. providing medications through a catheter 21. arm veins

®

Build your own custom worksheet at education.com/worksheet-generator © 2007 - 2025 Education.com

THE E-NEWS PUBLICATION OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR VASCULAR ACCESS