Exploring how the development of a nurse-led vascular access service has benefited patients
Kelly, L.J.; Buchan, E.; Brown, A.; Tehrani, Y.; Cowan, D.
Nursing Times 105(24): 16-18
2009
ISSN/ISBN: 0954-7762 PMID: 19601435 Document Number: 630614
The management and care of patients in Greater Glasgow and Clyde needing long-term vascular access has changed markedly over the past six years. A nurse-led vascular access service has been introduced to reduce waiting times for patients requiring long-term venous access for treatments such as chemotherapy, long-term antibiotics, renal dialysis and feeding. Nurses in the service now insert tunnelled central venous catheters (TCVCs) and also educate and train other healthcare professionals. This service has led to a reduction in complications and provided a source of expert advice for both patients and healthcare professionals.