Preventing Healthcare Associated Infections Associated with Vascular Access Devices

Learn how to reduce infection risks associated with using vascular access devices, and understand how these risks arise and how they can be minimised

Overview
This course contains two parts that explore the general principles for preventing catheter-related infections when caring for patients with vascular access devices in-situ.

• Part 1
  • Vascular Access Devices and their Associated Risks
  • General principles of infection prevention
  • Insertion of a vascular access device (VAD)
• Part 2
  • VAD Insertion Site Dressing Regimen
  • Good Practice when accessing VAD's
  • Inspecting VAD Insertion Sites for signs of Inflammation & Infection
  • Replacing VADs and introvenous Administration Sets
  • Audit, Reflective Practice and Documentation

What will learners get out of it

• Ability to highlight and understand the importance of preventing and controlling HCAIs when using VAD’s
• Familiarity with the correct use of sterile and non-sterile gloves and aseptic technique
• Understanding of the different aspects that need to be considered when choosing the most appropriate PVAD or CVAD
• Understanding of the importance of selecting and preparing an appropriate VAD insertion site as well how to prevent infection when inserting a VAD
• Knowledge of the guidelines relating to best practice when accessing a VAD, and relating to the ongoing monitoring and inspection of VAD insertion sites
• Learn about catheter replacement strategy
• Understanding audits, reflective practice and documentation when managing VADs
• The course contributes towards the Saving Lives delivery course to reduce HCAIs like MRSA and the NPSA ‘Clean Your Hands’ campaign.

Who is the course for
All clinical staff.

Assessment
The two parts are followed by an assessment designed to test learners' understanding of the course. Learning progress and test results can be tracked by managers for internal development and learners can keep a certificate of completion for CPD.

Accreditations & Endorsements
This course is part of the infection prevention suite of courses which are nationally endorsed. It was developed with the University of West London.

Duration: 90 mins approx