Featured Article Enhancing Patient Experience Through Adult and Pediatric VAT Implementation Shonda Morrow, JD, MS, RN, CENP; Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois Kimberly Alsbrooks, BSN, RN, RT (R), VA-BC; BD, Franklin Lakes, NJ, USA Guadalupe Ordaz-Nielsen, BSN, RN, VA-BC; Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois Cathy Heinzinger, RN, RNC-NIC, VA-BC; Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois Mary Zack, BSN, RN, VA-BC; Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
The Importance of Vascular Access Vascular access (VA) is a critical component of patient care that allows clinicians to safely administer medications and fluids, obtain blood samples, and provide other necessary treatment1. VA is achieved by providers through the insertion of a peripheral or central vascular access device (VAD) into a blood vessel2. Over 90% of inpatients will require a VAD at some point during their hospital stay, and worldwide the annual number of VAD insertions is estimated to be in the billions3. Given the increasing role of VADs in patient care, there is a demonstrated need for dedicated VA teams (VATs) to place and maintain VADs3. VATs are composed of specialized clinicians with responsibilities including VAD selection, placement, and management3. The implementation of VATs in clinical settings has been shown to improve multiple clinical metrics, including rates of thrombosis, infection, and device failure3,4. Furthermore, a recent publication detailing in-depth interviews with VAT members/leaders from nine countries revealed that, when combined with advanced technologies (i.e., point-of-care ultrasound) and evidence-based practices, VATs can significantly improve clinical, economic, and patient satisfaction outcomes5.
Recognizing the Obstacles The Rush University System for Health is an extensive network of hospitals and outpatient care facilities located in Illinois with a mission to improve the health of the greater Chicago community6.
Volume 10/Issue 1
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