Effectiveness of Peripheral Intravenous Line Securement With Splint in Neonates

Effectiveness of Peripheral Intravenous Line Securement With Splint in Neonates Admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

Splints are often used in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) to immobilize the limb and stabilize the catheter, theoretically reducing complications by minimizing movement at the catheter site. Unfortunately, not much local data exist on the effectiveness of splints for peripheral intravenous line securement (PIVC). This study aimed to compare the dwell time of PIVCs with and without splints in neonates admitted to the NICU.

The expected outcomes, which included optimized PIVC management protocols that could lower the frequency of catheter replacements, thereby reducing neonatal distress and the risk of infection. Establishing clear best practices may improve overall care quality, enhance workflow efficiency for NICU staff, and ultimately lead to better health outcomes. The findings could support the development of standardized guidelines for PIVC securement, with implications not only for local but also for global neonatal care settings.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Neonates
• Any gender
• Admitted to the NICU and required PIVC insertion

Exclusion Criteria:

• Skin conditions like fragile skin syndromes, dermatitis, or local infections that may worsen with splint and adhesive use
• Congenital limb deformities like clubfoot, polydactyly, joint contractures that impede proper splint application
• Severe limb edema