Effectiveness of a Needle-free Connector With Anti-reflux Technology in Reducing Complications From Long Peripheral Venous Catheters in Hospitalised Adult Patients: Randomised Clinical Trial

Introduction: Long peripheral venous catheters (PVCs) are a suitable alternative to short PVCs, midline catheters (MLCs) and central venous catheters (CVCs), particularly in patients with difficult intravenous access (DIVA), due to their characteristics: they are between 6 and 15 centimetres in length, have a gauge of 18 to 22 gauge (G), and do not extend beyond the axillary vein.

Hypothesis: The use of a needle-free connector with neutral fluid displacement and equipped with anti-reflux technology (Clave™ Neutron™) in long PVCs in adult inpatients with acute conditions reduces the number of catheter failures during the first seven days compared with a neutral-displacement needle-free connector without an anti-reflux valve.

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of using a needle-free connector with neutral fluid displacement and equipped with anti-reflux technology (Clave™ Neutron™) following the insertion of long PVCs in adult inpatients in the acute phase of their illness during the first seven days.

Methodology: A clinical study involving two randomised groups will be conducted prior to catheter placement. The control group will receive treatment using a needle-free connector with neutral fluid displacement and without an anti-reflux valve (Microclave® Clear, Ref. 011-MC3302). The intervention group will receive treatment using a needle-free connector with neutral fluid displacement and equipped with anti-reflux technology (Clave™ Neutron™, Ref. 011-NC139).

Expected results: It is expected that the incidence of complications associated with long PVCs in hospitalised adult patients will be reduced following the standardised implementation of a needle-free connector with neutral fluid displacement and equipped with anti-reflux technology (Clave™ Neutron™) during the initial phase of treatment. Specifically, a reduction in the incidence of catheter obstructions and CRBSI is anticipated.

Clinical implication: The study will contribute to optimising decision-making regarding catheter maintenance and related therapeutic measures, with the aim of reducing the main complications associated with them.

Inclusion criteria

• Patients requiring placement of a long peripheral venous catheter.
• Patients who have provided written informed consent.
• Patients with an expected hospital stay of ≥7 days.

Exclusion criteria

• Inability to place a long peripheral venous catheter in the upper limbs.