Special Edition IQ - Oct. 2023

INTRAVASCULAR QUARTERLY

AVA SCIENTIFIC MEETING SPECIAL EDITION

WELCOME

I am incredibly honored and excited to be part of AVA’s 2023 Annual Scientific Meeting in Portland, Oregon. The design team (D-Team) has been diligently working to create a versatile meeting and has an exciting lineup planned. Session topic highlights include equity, diversity, and inclusion; hospital onset bacteremia; catheter materials; and navigating legality in vascular access.

Whether you are a conference veteran or a first-time attendee, the AVA scientific meeting is a great venue to spark inspiration and immerse yourself in the opportunity to engage with fellow vascular access specialists from around the globe. We will hear from influential leaders in general sessions, attend multifaceted breakout presentations on niche topics, explore the latest from our industry partners in the Exhibit Hall, and take a quiet moment to browse the electronic poster display.

At the heart of this meeting is the work each and every clinician puts into advancing this specialty and bringing best practices to our patients for optimal outcomes. I want to extend a heartfelt “Thank you” to the immense team required to make this annual event possible. The dedication from the AVA organization, conference managers, industry partners, and D-Team members is remarkable. It has been my distinct privilege to be your D-Team Chair for the AVASM23. I can’t wait to see you in Portland, learn from each other, and celebrate the achievements shared by the vascular access community.

Congratulations to the 2023 AVA Foundation Scholarship Winners!

In 2023 we had 27 applicants and the opportunity to award 5 scholarships to AVASM in Portland. The awards include a full meeting registration and $500 towards expenses. Meet the winners!

“I hope to advance the specialty of vascular access with social media education, medical writing, conference participation, patient experience amplification, implementation of best practices and conduction of research.”

“Registered Nurse with 10 years of experience in a paediatric care setting. Passionate about nursing and health policy as it influences nursing practice, patient safety outcomes and organizational structures. Committed to lifelong learning and development to support personal and professional development of myself, my peers, and the nursing profession.”

“Since accepting the full-time role as nurse manager for these [Adult & Pediatric vascular access] teams, I have been able to effectively execute projects centered around improving vascular access and patient safety outcomes. I have worked diligently with our Clinical Quality Excellence Department to complete a PI project aimed at improving ultrasound guided PIV training and competencies within the ED and ICU locations.”

Jennifer Bartowitz, BSN, RN, VA-BC, Vascular Access Nurse, Froedtert Hospital, Milwaukee, WI

Sarah Gallie, RN, MN, BSc, CpedN©, Clinical Nurse Specialist – Interprofessional Practice, SickKids Hospital, Newmarket, ON

Vickie Griffis, RN, MSN, ACLS, CCRN Nurse Manager – Vascular Access, Wound, Ostomy, and Management, Augusta University Medical Center, Augusta, GA

Dagoberto Salinas, MSN, ACCNS-AG, CNOR, CDR, NC, USN Director of Business Operations and Clinical Innovation, PICC Pros, LLC, San Antonio, TX

“I am a clinical nurse specialist by trade, so my mind is always thinking of ways to influence clinical practice at the patient, staff, and systems levels. I recently became a member of AVA, and am looking forward to making an impact in the vascular access world. I have experience publishing in peerreviewed nursing journals, and will soon begin drafting the virtual reality project for a future publication in [J]AVA. I have never attended an AVA conference due to military service scheduling conflicts, but the time to attend is now.”

Lewis Cortes Quiroga, MSN, Professional Nurse, University Hospital, Bogota’, Columbia

“One of the current pillars of hospitalized or ambulatory patients who require management of intravenous therapy, is to do it effectively and accurately. Living in a third world continent many advanced technologies are not within our reach and in my country of Colombia. That is why I look hard for places or centers that allow me to train in everything related to venous access or intravenous therapy with the goal that the patient who is cared for by me, will always be in the best hands. That is why I am glad to attend AVASM23. I am sure that it will give me many tools to be applied in the institution where I work.”

(This information has been translated and edited.)

2022 AVA SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

At the AVA Scientific Meeting last year in Minneapolis, our first year back together postCOVID, the Foundation awarded 20 Scholarships. A big kick-off by the Foundation to celebrate coming back together.

Several of the 2022 winners reflect on their experience at AVASM 2022.

Kimberly DuBore

“Attending AVA 2022 has motivated me to become more involved with the organization. I am participating in a special interest group to provide material for patients and clinicians that will be on the website! I am studying to take my VA-BC in December. I currently have 4 jobs, so research and publication are very intimidating for me at this time. I will be attending [AVASM in] Portland this year and [I am] excited to learn more and network.”

Kathy Grieser

“I feel that the scholarship helped me because it helped to pay for the pre-conferences that I attended. These helped me to affirm how our team functions is within the standards and reinforce my knowledge. I have been in the middle of a research project with [Near Infrared Technology (NIT)], gathering data regarding successful attempts using technology. We have submitted our abstract for publication but all of the submission has been done by [the NIT manufacturer]. I had hoped to submit to [J]AVA, but the [manufacturer is] in charge of the study. I am just a co-author and gathered all the data. I did access the AVAF mentorship program fairly quickly after getting an email about it but have not since then. I don’t feel that I have necessarily advanced my practice since AVASM ’22. But I am very devoted to AVA and am attending the meeting again this year, bringing two of our staff with me. Luckily our budget allows us to come so I did not encourage them to apply for the scholarship because I wanted it to be available for other hospitals to be able to send staff. Thank you so much for my scholarship last year!”

Katie Trautman

“Last year, I had the opportunity to attend the AVA 2022 Scientific Conference. This was the first conference I had attended in my nursing career and learned more than I thought possible and had an amazing time while doing so!

I was introduced to several new products that I brought back to share with others across the organization. One of these products [Tissue Adhesive Securement], we ended up trialing, and implementing, and now is used across the institution to increase dressing adherence and support our CLABSI reduction bundle. I was also introduced to blood culture diversion devices, which we trialed, but have not yet rolled out into practice.

In hindsight, I should’ve accessed the AVAF mentorship program to assist in publication of some of the work I have done and am doing, so I plan to utilize that in the upcoming year. Attending this conference also deeply strengthened my passion for vascular access. My current role includes not only managing our institutional vascular access team, but also focuses on CLABSI prevention. I was very impressed with the number of presentations on CLABSI prevention, as that is one of the reasons, I will be returning to this conference in 2023. Attending this conference also gave me the final push I needed to become trained in ultrasound guided peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) placement. I learned ultrasound guided peripheral IV placement several years ago but after last Fall’s conference I am now competent in PICC placement as well.”

Robert Perret

“I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to attend the 2022 AVA conference! Thanks to your foundation’s amazing scholarship, I was able to learn and grow in my daily practice and have a greater impact on the care of my local patient population. Since the conference, I have had the pleasure of being a part of helping change vascular access policies and introducing new products at my facility that can save costs and reduce patient trauma. Additionally, I am researching topics to present to the Mississippi Board of Nursing that can have a profound impact on what procedures are allowed by nurses in our state. Thank you for investing in me and giving me the knowledge and confidence to help others!”

Margaret Morales

“I was so thankful and grateful for the scholarship. I did not apply this year as I wanted to give another person the opportunity to attend. Great thanks. I have implemented a robust USGPIV program at the facility - with the guidance of an external expert.”

SESSION SUMMARIES

Are you planning to join us at AVASM23?

Be sure to plan out your schedule so you don’t miss your favorite sessions! Scan the QR code o download the event app, where you can search sessions, add them to your schedule, and even export to your personal calendar app for automated reminders.

To start you off, we’ve curated a short list of many amazing educational sessions coming to AVASM23. On-demand sessions will be available starting October 25, 2023.

Presented by:

• Katie Boston-Leary, PhD, MBA, MHA, RN, NEA-B, Director of Nursing Programs, American Nurses Association, Silver Spring, MD

The future of healthcare delivery requires a new type of leader to support the new age worker. A growth mindset is required to see past the challenges that currently exist and to take hold of the current state. Innovative and creative ways to lead teams in turmoil requires new ways of thinking and acting. A new approach to lead differently, care deeply and live fully is necessary to navigate turbulent times.

Learning Objectives:

• Demonstrate awareness of the current state of healthcare

• Define mindset, social responsibility, titanic syndrome and inclusive excellence

• Demonstrate and develop strategies to build a positive future for care delivery

Katie Boston-Leary is the Director of Nursing Programs at the American Nurses Association overseeing the Nursing Practice and Work Environment Division and Healthy Nurse Healthy Nation. Katie is also the co-chair for the DEI committee for the Healthcare Leaders Network Delaware Valley, an ACHE affiliate. She helped redesign the Nurse Leadership Institute at the University of Maryland with an embedded coaching program. Katie is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Maryland School of Nursing and the School of Nursing at Case Western Reserve University. She is a board member on St. John’s University Health Programs and an editorial advisory board member with Web/MD Medscape and ACHE. Katie serves as staff on the National Commission to Address Racism in Nursing and is also part of the National Academy of Science and Medicine’s National Plan to Address Clinician Well-Being supported by the U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy.

BREAKOUT SESSION

Improving Hospital Quality of Care and Outcomes of Patients with PICCs: The Michigan MAGIC Story

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2023

3-4 PM, PT LOCATION: B110

This session will present the journey of 69 hospitals working together through the Michigan Hospital Medicine Consortium (HMS) to reduce PICC-related complications by promoting appropriate device use. Since 2013, the collaborative has been collecting and sharing robust patient-level data to guide quality improvement (QI) and inform best practices. As a result, rates of PICC use for short-term, with multiple-lumens, and in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease have all declined. Importantly, rates of PICC-related thrombosis, bloodstream infection and catheter occlusion have also declined. In this session, discuss how interventions, such as benchmarking and incentivizing hospital performance, engaging physician champions, facilitating collaboration, and implementing a web based PICC QI toolkit have led to improvements. Finally, we will describe next steps for the work, including focusing on vascular access teams, oncology and critical care patient populations.

Through partnerships with multi-disciplinary stakeholders, HMS represents a unique model for a large-scale effort to improve clinical practice at diverse hospitals, including small and rural hospitals. HMS participating hospitals collected and shared patient-level data to evaluate practice patterns around PICCs, identify areas for improvement, and track performance trends over time. The Michigan Appropriateness Guide for Intravenous Catheters (MAGIC) was implemented to prevent catheter-related complications, such as catheter occlusion, blood stream infections and venous thrombosis. Analyses of HMS data have resulted in robust insights around PICC practice and have been shared in peer-reviewed medical literature. HMS has also developed a web based PICC QI toolkit and provided expert resources for participating hospitals.

During this session, we will describe our collaborative experiences and lessons learned. We will discuss 1) overcoming barriers to PICC QI, 2) using data to drive changes in clinical practice, 3) implementing interventions, and 4) engaging stakeholders (including vascular access teams) in change management.

We will also share our collaborative-wide performance and outcomes data, including the results of our analysis in 2022 that showed significant improvements in appropriate PICC use, and significant reductions in catheter-related complication rates. Moreover, we demonstrated a substantial savings benefit despite the cost of this large-scale, multi-hospital effort.

Vineet Chopra, MD, MSc David Paje, MD, MPH Elizabeth McLaughlin, MS, RN

GENERAL SESSION: Vascular Access and Infusion Therapy. Time for a Renaissance

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2023

10-11 AM, PT LOCATION: OREGON BALLROOM

This session will take you on a journey of discovery from the mid-18th Century when a triad for deep vein thrombosis was proposed to 2023 and the staggering changes that have taken place in vascular access and infusion therapy science.

The content of this presentation will critique the sociological and political influences that have influenced vascular and infusion therapy approaches. It will highlight the importance for robust modern approaches to scientific discovery and evidence synthesis. It will highlight that the relationship between art and science requires a deeper understanding of clinician and scientist collaboration in our field. It will make us question why have we developed certain products for clinical purposes. Finally, it will highlight future improvements and requirements in vascular access.

BREAKOUT SESSION:

Different PICC Insertion Techniques in the NICU: Does the Evidence Call for a Change?

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2023

3:30-4 PM, PT LOCATION: C123

3 years of comprehensive data have been collected and compiled to compare a VAT and NICU NPs placing PICCs in a 70 bed NICU in a free-standing pediatric hospital. Data comparing insertion technique, materials utilized, number of sticks to insertion, success rates, time to insertion and patient weight will be included. Traditional and Transillumination technique vs Ultrasound Guidance, and Silicone versus polyurethane catheters will be discussed in this presentation. Number of sticks, success rates, time to insertion, and patient weight will be compared.

Andrew C. Bulmer, PhD Peter J. Carr, MMedSc, BSC

Denaye J. Beckler, RN, BSN, CEN, VA-BC

Theresa M. Stevenson, BSN, RN, VA-BC

GENERAL SESSION: From Hospital to Homecare: Bridging the Gap in the Patient Experience

MONDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2023

8:45-9:45 AM, PT

LOCATION: OREGON BALLROOM

An engaging event with:

• Insightful Mini keynotes by KOLs

• Dynamic panel discussions

• Valuable insights from patient and caregiver perspectives

Meet the Panelists:

Emily Levy, BA Panel Moderator

Co-founder and President, Mighty Well® and International Public Speaker

Swapna Kakani, MPH Healthcare Advocate, Consultant, Researcher, and Oley Foundation Member

Dr. Mickey Hawes

Data to Wisdom Research Consulting and AVA® Foundation President

Dr. Nael Mhaissen

Director-at-Large, AVA® Pediatric Infection Disease Physician

Yousef Al-Humaidhi, MBA

Co-founder and CEO, Mighty Well®

In Partnership With:

GENERAL SESSION: PICCing the best PICC: Uncovering the Role of PICC Materials and Design to Reduce Harm

MONDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2023

9:45-10:45 AM, PT LOCATION: OREGON BALLROOM

The last 40 years have seen a rapid acceleration in peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) use, but also a growing recognition of the complications that may result. In recognition, innovators have developed exciting new PICC material and design technologies. This session will review the science surrounding PICC materials and design, explore recent studies, and review how these new technologies may impact the prevention of infections, thromboses and occlusive events. We will debut the results of the world’s first head-to-head comparison of simple polyurethane, hydrophobic and chlorhexidine-impregnated PICCs recently completed in Australia, involving over 1,000 adults and children across three large, tertiary hospitals.

PEDINEO GENERAL SESSION:

Transhepatic and Subcostal Ultrasound Imaging for Catheter Location of Tunneled Mid-thigh Femoral Vein Catheters in Neonates

MONDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2023

9:45-10:45 AM, PT LOCATION: C123

To improve patient care and decrease radiation exposure to the neonates, we recently adapted the use of point-of-care-ultrasound (POCUS) to confirm neonatal subcutaneously tunneled femorally inserted central catheters. We compared the accuracy of POCUS (trans hepatic and subcostal views) to standard radiography (anterior posterior and lateral) for verification of vessel placement and catheter terminal tip location. We will present the data from our prospective IRB approved study in our neonatal ICU as well as case studies, and the final protocol for POCUS tip location.

Amanda Ullman, RN PhD

Deanne L. August, PhD

Matthew D. Ostroff, MSN, AGANCO, VA-BC

GENERAL SESSION: Hospital Onset Bacteremia and Fungemia

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2023

11 AM-12 PM, PT LOCATION: OREGON BALLROOM

There has been a heightened focus on the prevention of central line associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) for decades.In the United States, CLABSI surveillance has transitioned from internal quality improvement to a federally mandated requirement, including financial penalties. Recently, there has been growing interest and support in expanding surveillance beyond only CLABSI. This session will update attendees on HOB protocol progress from CDC and CMS. A review of the current literature and resources will guide the discussion of contributing factors and prevention strategies for this new metric. With this knowledge we will propose several ways for vascular access specialists to leverage their expertise and passion for vessel health and preservation to help advocate for solutions that will help drive better patient outcomes.

Michelle M. DeVries, MPH, CIC, VA-BC, CPHQ, FAPIC

DJ Shannon, MPH, CIC, VABC, FAPIC

Opening Pandora’s Box: The Clinical And Legal Implications Of Hospital-Onset Bacteremia

(HOB) Reporting

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2023

12:15 – 1:30 PM PT

LOCATION: PORTLAND BALLROOM 251

Symposium Speakers (pictured L to R):

• Lori Kaczmarek, MSN, RN, VA-BC™ (she/her/hers) – Adhezion Biomedical, LLC

• Russell S. Nassof, Juris Doctorate (he/him/his) – RiskNomics

• Sarah S. Capalla, RN, MSN, CNRN, CCRN – Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital

• Matheus (Roland) Van Rens, RN, MaANP, NNP (he/him/his) – Hamad Medical Corporation (former)

Join clinical and legal experts as they address the issues and challenges Hospital-Onset Bacteremia reporting brings. We are faced with protecting all vascular access devices, not just central venous catheters, from infection and failure. What are the implications? How can we protect millions of vascular access catheters? And how do we protect ourselves as professionals in this new reality?

As our guest at this lunch symposium, this talk show-style presentation allows you to converse with legal and clinical experts from neonatal and adult patient populations. Our experts will participate in a panel discussion and answer the most common questions about Hospital-Onset Bacteremia posed by vascular access and infusion specialists.

If you are interested in receiving more information about this presentation please contact Rachel Brizek (rbrizek@adhezion.com).

Supported By:

We Heart Veins – PICC Navigation Panel and Discussion

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2023

12:15 – 1:30 PM PT

LOCATION: PORTLAND BALLROOM 252

Symposium Speakers (pictured L to R):

• Casey Schuller, BSN-RN, VA-BC – Bon Secours Mercy St Vincent Medical Center

• Amy Bardin, Ed.D, RRT, FAARC, VA-BC™ – Teleflex

I heart veins. You heart veins.

We heart veins.

Successful PICC placement requires a range of skills and technologies that allow you to seamlessly progress from one step to the next for maximum efficiency. This multi-speaker session will focus on topics around navigation, tip confirmation, ultrasound, and PICC placement best practices and examples. The goal is to give vascular access specialists the technology overview, knowledge, and confidence they need to insert PICCs efficiently because we all HEART veins.

Objectives:

• Review clinical practices related to PICC insertion and device selection

• Provide an in-depth look at the science behind PICC navigation technologies

• Review examples of education and strategic partnership between clinical and industry leaders

Supported By:

One Stick Hospital Stay - Key Elements for Advancing Practice and the Vision

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2023

7:00 – 8:30 AM PT

LOCATION: PORTLAND BALLROOM 252

Symposium Speaker:

• Brian Pendleton, RN, MSN – Riverton Hospital, Intermountain Health

Peripheral IV insertion and blood collection are two of the most common inpatient procedures in US hospitals that touch almost every patient every day. Current practices are often accepted as the norm. The hidden cost, clinical quality, and patient experience impacts may be under appreciated and the possibility of a better standard of care may not be envisioned.

Can we challenge the status quo and transform clinical practice? Is there an opportunity to achieve the vision of a ‘one stick hospital stay’ --- the right IV placed correctly on the first attempt that lasts for the duration of care and can be used for both infusion therapy and blood draws? What does it take to overcome the status quo and implement change? The ability to drive sustainable change is critical to advancing clinical practice. But change requires strong leadership and a disciplined and creative approach that balances the need of nurse engagement with demanding workloads and a primary focus on direct patient care.

Objectives:

• Explore two approaches to implementing and sustaining clinical practice change for the two most common inpatient procedures – IV access and blood draws.

• Learn about innovative practice models created to address staffing and workflow efficiencies while continuing to advance patient care.

• Understand the importance of change management to realizing substantive change and the resulting value to the hospital, clinicians, and patients.

Supported By:

PIV Power-Up: Elevating Vascular Access Care & Teamwork for Catheter Maintenance Excellence!

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2023

7:00 – 8:30 AM PT

LOCATION: PORTLAND BALLROOM 251

Symposium Speakers (pictured L to R):

• Max R. Holder, MSN, RN, CRNI, NE-BC, VA-BC – Baylor Scott and White Health

• Mary Duncan, RN, MSN, CIC – University of Alabama-Birmingham Health Center

Peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) rank among the most frequently utilized vascular access devices within healthcare settings, as 60% - 90% of hospitalized patients necessitate an IV during their stay.1 Placing a PIVC may be a common procedure but the issues surrounding PIVC failure can result in highly lethal complications. Vascular Access complications may occur throughout any part of the course of the therapy therefore proficiency of all health care professionals is never more important to help decrease complications. However, there are evidence-based practices that can help to prevent these complications. Working together with your interdisciplinary partners such as a VA team, creating a care bundle and fostering an adaptive culture are just some of the measures to help ensure your patients achieve the best possible clinical outcomes. This symposium will discuss the many facets of PIV management from both the Vascular Access and Infection Prevention Specialists perspective.

1. Helm RE, Klausner JD, Klemperer JD, et al. Accepted but unacceptable: peripheral IV catheter failure. J Infus Nurs. 2015;38(3):189-203. doi:10.1097/NAN.0000000000000100

Objectives:

• Understand the incidence and impact of PIVC complications.

• Review recommended practices and evidence-based interventions for PIVC maintenance to help reduce complications.

• Evaluate effective strategies and optimal approaches, including vascular access maintenance bundles, to mitigate the risk of catheter-related bloodstream infections.

• Explore methods for surveillance of Hospital-Onset Bacteremia and Fungemia

• Gain insights into improving clinical practices through interdisciplinary teamwork to increase compliance with interventions to address IV catheter-related complications.

If you are interested in receiving more information about this presentation please contact Fran Kleinsteuber, Medical Education Manager, 3M at fkleinsteuber@mmm.com.

Supported By:

EXHIBITOR EDUCATION & EVENTS

VA Talk: Understanding The Life Cycle Of Vascular Access Devices

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2023

11:30 – 11:50 AM PT

LOCATION: EXHIBITOR THEATER

Theater Speaker:

• Judith LaJoie, DNP, RN, CRNI®, CENP, Chief Nurse-BD, Medical Delivery Solutions

This 20-minute discussion will focus on the different steps within the lifecycle of vascular access devices. From identification of the correct device for the therapy, skin preparation, placement, care, and maintenance through to device removal. Understanding the lifecycle in totality can potentially lead to reduced complications and longer dwell times.

Presented By:

Choosing A Midline That Meets Patient And Clinician Needs

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2023

12:00 – 12:20 PM PT

LOCATION: EXHIBITOR THEATER

Theater Speaker:

• Lee J. Steere, RN, CRNI, VA-BC, Nurse Manager IV Therapy Services, Hartford Hospital, Amston, CT

• How and why we expanded our midline program at Hartford Hospital

• Barriers to midline insertions

• How bringing in the HydroMID has increased our use by addressing barriers to placement

• The results we’ve seen since transitioning to the HydroMID hydrophilic midline catheter

If you are interested in receiving more information about this presentation please contact Vickerie Williams at vwilliams@ accessvascularinc.com.

Presented By:

VA Talk: Impact of PIV Maintenance Bundle on Bloodstream Infections and Compliance

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2023

12:30 – 12:50 PM PT

LOCATION: EXHIBITOR THEATER

Theater Speaker:

• Mary Duncan, RN, MSN, CIC, Sr. Director Infection Prevention, University of Alabama-Birmingham Health Center, Alabama

Presented By:

VA Talk: Keep it Simple Specialist: One Securement Device, One PICC, Until the End of Need

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2023

1:00 – 1:20 PM PT

LOCATION: EXHIBITOR THEATER

Theater Speaker:

• Michelle L. Hawes, DNP, CRNI, VA-BC, ACRP-CP (she/her/hers), Independent Research Consultant, Data to Wisdom Research Consulting, Bloomington, IN

Objectives:

• Discuss the patient’s need to complete therapy with one PICC.

• Identify patient and clinical issues related to inadequate securement.

• Describe the outcomes in a retrospective study of securement options.

Many tests, medications, and procedures often follow a cancer diagnosis. Patients may have a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) placed to receive chemotherapy, nutrition, or retrieve atraumatic blood samples. The tip of the PICC must remain securely in the target location until the end of the patient’s need for treatment. Accomplishing the goal of reaching the end of need with one vascular access device requires expert placement and reliable continuous securement.

Presented By:

Strategies for Prevention of CLABSI: Focus on Promotion of Dressing Integrity and Longevity©

MONDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2023

7:00 – 8:30 AM PT

LOCATION: PORTLAND BALLROOM 251

Symposium Speaker:

• MiKaela M. Olsen, DNP, APRN-CNS, AOCNS, FAAN (she/her/hers), Clinical Program Director - Oncology, Johns Hopkins Hospital and Johns Hopkins Health System, Baltimore, MD

Dressing disruption is a major risk factor for catheter-related infections. A large randomized controlled trial found that 67% of dressing changes were unplanned, and that dressing disruption directly correlates with increased risk of catheter colonization or infections. Johns Hopkins Hospital, pioneer of the original insertion line checklist, performed a root cause analysis in 2016 to determine if they could further decrease their already low CLABSI rate. Results from this analysis, coupled with a new “zero tolerance for blood” policy and a CLABSI reduction program that focused on getting back to basics, resulted in a 50% reduction in CLABSI in 2017, and an additional 26% reduction in 2018. This program will review the CLABSI reduction strategy, which focuses on dressing integrity and longevity, that worked for Johns Hopkins Hospital before, during and after the pandemic. It will explain evidence-based central venous catheter dressing change recommendations and outline strategies to ensure catheter dressing longevity in challenging situations.

Following a pre-insertion protocol that includes an assessment of patient-specific factors, along with choosing the right line and the right site for a successful insertion the first time can help mitigate infection risk. Dressings that are transparent, clean, dry, and intact decrease the risk of CLABSI and implementation of a zero tolerance for blood at the site takes the guess work out and leaves no room for individual interpretation of this definition. A comprehensive central line insertion checklist used in conjunction with all-inclusive central line kits has been shown to be a useful strategy in maintaining dressing integrity until the first scheduled dressing change, seven days from insertion.

Bloody dressings and dressing disruption are two major causes of CLABSI, so the integrity of the initial dressing placement is critically important. The best dressing is the first dressing; use a hemostatic agent at insertion to prevent bleeding lines instead of waiting to apply the hemostatic agent until after a dressing becomes bloody. To prevent bleeding at insertion, use a topical hemostatic dressing that forms a seal over the insertion site to stop the flow of blood and exudate, this protects the site from contamination, and keeps the site dry and intact until the scheduled dressing change. Adopting a “zero tolerance for blood” policy at the insertion site in combination with proper site preparation by the inserter and post-insertion care by a “Dressing Change SWAT Team” of experts is key to improving dressing longevity.

EXHIBITOR EDUCATION & EVENTS

Proper dressing care and maintenance protocols help reduce infection risk and bundling supplies helps ensure compliance with these protocols. Pay attention to every detail. Perform dressing changes per your institutional protocol and secure the lines properly to prevent pistoning or too much tension. Form a “Difficult Dressing SWAT Team” to proactively address the most challenging dressing issues that can prevent the dressing from staying dry and intact and cause skin disruption. Encouraging and rewarding staff for being patient-centric can lead to the culture shifting adoption of a “zero tolerance for blood” dressing policy and the belief that a zero CLABSI rate is achievable.

Supported By:

VA Talk: UGPIV: The Bottom Line for Disinfection and Protection

MONDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2023

12:30 – 12:50 PM PT

LOCATION: EXHIBITOR THEATER

Theater Speakers:

• Nancy Moureau, CRNI CPUI VA BC (she/her/hers), CEO, PICC Excellence, Hartwell, GA

• James Thomas

Challenges continue for training and safety with ultrasound-guided peripheral catheter insertions and procedural performance in clinical practice. Issues of implementation of disinfection, standardized probe protection, application of aseptic non touch technique ANTT, and establishing effective training with follow-up all require attention to apply changing recommendations and update policies. This discussion will blend current recommendations and options, along with real-life applications and stories describing clinical usage specific to a children’s hospital and emergency department. Come and learn about ultrasound-guided PIV applications, new developments and methods to standardize your programs

Presented By:

EXHIBITOR EDUCATION & EVENTS

VA Talk: The Value of Certification: Preparing for the VA-BC

MONDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2023

1:00 – 1:20 PM PT

LOCATION: EXHIBITOR THEATER

Theater Speaker:

• Kay Coulter, RN, CRNI®, VA-BC™, Executive Director, Infusion Knowledge, Inc., Clearwater, FL

Join us for an insightful presentation by esteemed healthcare professionals, Blake Hotchkiss MSN, MBA, RN, VA-BC, and Kay Coulter RN, CRNI, VA-BC, as they explore the paramount topic of “The Value of VA-BC Certification in Vascular Access.” In this engaging session, they will shed light on the significance of certification in this specialized field, emphasizing the pivotal role of VA-BC in enhancing patient care.

Delve deep into the AVA (Association for Vascular Access) and Infusion Knowledge Countdown to Your Exam Program, a comprehensive approach designed to equip you for success in challenging VA-BC certification exams. Discover the various components of the exam prep bundle, including on-demand webinars, 14.5 hours of online didactic content, a comprehensive workbook, and a digital copy of the AVA Resource Guide for Vascular Access. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and prepare effectively for your certification journey.

If you are interested in receiving more information about this presentation please contact AVA Education at avaed@avainfo.org.

Presented By:

CALL FOR TOPICS AND PRESENTATIONS: www.avainfo.org/CFP2024

WHO IS AVA?

AVA, The Association for Vascular Access, is a notfor-profit multidisciplinary professional organization uniquely positioned as the leader in vascular access education and research. Its mission is to improve patient safety, comfort and outcomes, define the vascular access specialty, promote a favorable public policy environment, optimize professionals’ knowledge and skills, share best practices, and promote research in vascular access.

AVA’s membership includes clinicians from many disciplines including nursing, medicine, radiology, respiratory therapy, pharmacy, as well as consumers, professionals from industry, education, research, and others with an interest or specialization in vascular access and related fields.

Meeting attendees come from many countries and include professionals from:

September 28-October 1

Submissions accepted until January 9, 2024

AVA ANNUAL SCIENTIFIC MEETING

2024 marks AVA’s 38th Annual Scientific Meeting with at least 1,300 attendees, which include 60–70 industry partners. The meeting site is in Denver, Colorado at the Gaylord Rockies AVA demonstrates its leadership role in the art and science of vascular access. This four-day conference (September 28-October 1, 2024) provides attendees with opportunities to participate in educational sessions, hands-on training, facilitated discussion, and networking.

General Sessions focus on development of the vascular access specialty, clinical research, professional development, technological advances, and evidence-based practice.

Breakout Sessions will offer small group presentations emphasizing subjects of interest for the vascular access specialist and related disciplines; abstract and poster presentations allow participants to share original research, education projects and clinical innovations.

Symposia, VA Talks, and Exhibits afford participants, industry partners, and exhibitors the opportunity to learn from one another in order to design and apply new technologies, science, and techniques in the most effective ways. With separate registration fees, an additional day of Pre-Meeting Workshops (September 27, 2024) offers in-depth exploration of topics of critical importance to the vascular access community

The Call for Topics seeks submissions from:

1) Professionals who wish to submit a Topic for Presentation

2) Recommendations for speakers and/or topics to be included in the Scientific Meeting

• Participation and submission of topic suggestions is NOT limited to AVA members

• Topics should address the general or specific interests of AVA members and meeting participants keeping in mind that AVA is an organization of clinicians, healthcare specialties, and industry/corporate professionals involved in vascular access and related fields

• Presentations must avoid any semblance of commercialism

• General Sessions are limited to 60 minutes in length

• Breakout Sessions may be scheduled from 30 to 60 minutes in length at the discretion of the selection committee

• Hands-On Workshops may be scheduled for a full day (8 hours) or for a half day (4 hours)

• A topic submitter may submit more than one topic, but please note that each speaker may be limited to presenting at only one invited session and one poster/oral abstract as the principal author

• AVA values diversity, inclusion, and professional mentoring among its membership and promotes these values in its topic and speaker selection processes

• AVA reserves the right to solicit additional and/or new speakers for any proposed topic

Get prepared for your Presentation Submission.

The information listed below is required to complete the submission process. Each submission is reviewed by program committee members who score the key elements based on how closely the given criteria are met.

Presentation Title:

Use key words that describe the specific topic and content of the abstract. Catch phrases can be used but need to include a reference to the topic. For example, “Making a Difference” may get attention but does not suggest what the abstract is about. By adding a specific reference to the abstract subject matter, the abstract title becomes clearer; i.e., “Making a Difference: Ace Inhibitors in Hypertensive Patients.”

Target Audience:

What population is this session designed to benefit most?

Level of experience of the target audience: Basic, Intermediate, Advanced

What type of presentation is this?

General Session

Breakout Session*

Hands-On Workshop

*Breakout Sessions may be scheduled from 30 to 60 minutes in length at the discretion of the selection committee.

Prerequisite:

Include the minimum knowledge and/or skills required to most benefit from this session.

Purpose/Goals:

This statement should be the most important primary information you want to convey for the abstract. This should be one or two sentences. The title should not be repeated.

Has this presentation been given before? Where?

Learning Objectives /Outcomes:

Minimum of three objectives are required. Provide three to five outcomes that complete the statement: “By the end of this session the participant will be able to....” DO NOT type this statement in the text box when entering each of your outcomes.

Content Description:

The content description should be concise yet comprehensive. Ask yourself as you are reading the session description, “As an attendee, do I know what this abstract is about and would I want to attend?” Ask a colleague to read it as

well while considering the same question. (max. 1,000 characters including spaces)

Additional Text:

Any additional text that expands the content description to be used for the review process. This narrative is your opportunity to provide a convincing overview of the value of your proposed session. If the reviewers cannot clearly understand what this session is about, your odds of having your abstract selected are greatly reduced. Expansion of the content description must be written in a brief, well-organized, and focused manner. In one paragraph the potential speaker should have written a narrative that:

1. Identifies the key topics that will be addressed

2. Describes any special learning activities, such as case study analysis, audience participation, or interactive discussion.

Speaker Contact Information, CV/Resume, Presentation Experience, and Availability Over Meeting Dates.

Contracts are signed only with the primary presenter. Only the Primary Presenter may be eligible for any speaker incentives. All presenters must be aware that this application is being submitted.

Some applicants will be contacted by an AVA 2024 Annual Meeting Design Team Member for a phone interview between January and February of 2024 to discuss the presentation submission. Please try to return messages promptly. The interview is an integral part of the submission review process. Failure to participate, or be available for an interview may result in the elimination of the submission from the review process.

The program will be selected by the end of March 2024. Applicants will receive notice by email.