What is the maximum time a peripheral IV catheter should remain in place?

What is the maximum time a peripheral IV catheter should remain in place?

• A. 24 hours
• B. 48 hours
• C. 72 to 96 hours, depending on institution policy
• D. One week

Answer: (C)

The maximum time a peripheral IV catheter should remain in place is typically guided by institutional policies, which can vary based on specific protocols and patient needs. Generally, many institutions recommend that peripheral IV catheters can safely stay in place for 72 to 96 hours, contingent upon factors like the patient's condition, the site of insertion, and any potential complications observed during the time the catheter is in use. This time frame allows for the evaluation of the insertion site for signs of complications such as infiltration, phlebitis, or infection, while still providing flexibility for continued IV therapy. Institutions establish these guidelines to balance effective patient care with the risks associated with prolonged catheter use, hence option C reflects a realistic and evidence-based approach. In contrast, durations such as 24 hours, 48 hours, or one week do not align with typical clinical practice guidelines. For example, keeping a catheter in place for only 24 or 48 hours might not take full advantage of the safe duration that patients can benefit from, while leaving a catheter in for one week poses increased risks of complications without adequate monitoring and care.

The maximum time a peripheral IV catheter should remain in place is typically guided by institutional policies, which can vary based on specific protocols and patient needs. Generally, many institutions recommend that peripheral IV catheters can safely stay in place for 72 to 96 hours, contingent upon factors like the patient's condition, the site of insertion, and any potential complications observed during the time the catheter is in use.

This time frame allows for the evaluation of the insertion site for signs of complications such as infiltration, phlebitis, or infection, while still providing flexibility for continued IV therapy. Institutions establish these guidelines to balance effective patient care with the risks associated with prolonged catheter use, hence option C reflects a realistic and evidence-based approach.

In contrast, durations such as 24 hours, 48 hours, or one week do not align with typical clinical practice guidelines. For example, keeping a catheter in place for only 24 or 48 hours might not take full advantage of the safe duration that patients can benefit from, while leaving a catheter in for one week poses increased risks of complications without adequate monitoring and care.