When in Doubt, Pull the Catheter Out: Implementation of an Evidence-Based Protocol in the Prevention and Management of Peripheral Intravenous Infiltration/Extravasation in Neonates.

The vast majority of infants in the NICU receive peripheral intravenous (PIV) therapy for administration of fluids, nutrition, medications, and blood products. The potential complications of infiltration and extravasation are common in this population. Consequences of inf.ltration and extravasation may be prevented or mitigated by early detection and prompt treatment. In addition, innovative therapies for wound care are constantly evolving. In order to improve outcomes, a practice guideline for intravenous (IV) infiltration prevention, management, and treatment is presented based on literature review and consultation with wound care experts. The guideline includes preventive measures, standardized IV assessment, staging, an algorithm outlining injury, and wound care recommendations.

Remember the risks of intravenous therapy and know how to reduce them.

Nicola Brooks, Associate Dean, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, De Montfort University, reflects on the potential problems that can occur with the administration of intravenous therapy.

Knowledge regarding noncytotoxic medication extravasation among registered nurses working in western Saudi Arabia.

Extravasation and infiltration are among the most common intravenous therapy complications. For noncytotoxic agents, the incidence of extravasation remains unknown. There has been little research into extravasation due to ethical considerations limiting controlled research; most evidences are based on small, uncontrolled trials or case reports. The purpose of this study was to assess the knowledge level regarding noncytotoxic medications extravasation and its associated factors among staff nurses.A descriptive correlational design using self-administered questionnaire was employed. A convenience sample of 387 nurses completed a questionnaire about noncytotoxic medication extravasation. Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 21 was used to analyze data by applying the chi-square test, t test, and the Mann-Whitney test to assess the knowledge difference between open and closed units' nurses.The results indicate that only 19.6% of nurses have a good knowledge about noncytotoxic medications extravasation. There was consistently poor staff knowledge regarding noncytotoxic medications extravasation. Although the closed units' nurses reported relatively higher level of knowledge than open units' nurses, their level of knowledge still inadequate. Health care organizations must consider developing specific policies regarding extravasation. Closed and open units' nurses should be enrolled in special education programs to improve their level of knowledge regarding noncytotoxic medication extravasation.

Catéteres venosos centrales con reservorio subcutáneo de implantación braquial. Una alternativa que tener en cuenta / Central venous catheters with subcutáneous reservoir wit implementation braquial: an alternative to consider

En pacientes con neoplasias, la administración de tratamientos debe realizarse por profesionales de enfermería con experiencia y conocimientos de la patología que se ha de tratar, de los fármacos, de las técnicas y de los dispositivos que se han de utilizar para su administración. La implantación de un dispositivo de acceso venoso con reservorio subcutáneo ofrece la posibilidad de múltiples, frecuentes inyecciones y extracción de sangre. Son estéticamente mejor aceptados que los catéteres externos, tiene menor riesgo de salida accidental e infección, precisan menos cuidados y permiten el tratamiento ambulatorio. Otras ventajas son que causan menos limitaciones de actividad diaria e higiene, lo que se relaciona con un aumento de la calidad de vida. Los resultados de éxito en la colocación y la disminución de las complicaciones mejoraron sensiblemente cuando para su implantación se utiliza fluoroscopia y ultrasonido (entre el 99 % y el 100 %), siendo las complicaciones de la colocación (hemorragia, neumotórax) del 0 %. La tasa de infecciones -trombosis venosa profunda (TVP)- no es llamativa, y permanece dentro de los parámetros normales en relación con los sistemas pectorales. Estos dispositivos son especialmente útiles en pacientes con anormalidades de pared del tórax (carcinoma dérmico de la pared del tórax y corazas tumorales). También cuando existen heridas abiertas de la zona torácica, traqueotomía o fibrosis producida por la radioterapia. Y ante la existencia de cicatrices de los colgajos después de una cirugía en cáncer de cuello (o cuando se prevea que el paciente va a recibir este tratamiento quirúrgico), cifosis severa, pacientes obesos y pacientes con insuficiencia respiratoria (AU)

Administering treatments in patients with malignancies must be performed by nursing professionals with experience and knowledge of the pathology being treated, drugs, techniques and devices used for administration. The implantation of a venous access device with subcutaneous reservoir offers the possibility of multiple and long-term frequent injections and also blood extraction from a less invasive way. They are aesthetically more acceptable than external catheters, they have a lower risk of accidental release and infection, they require less care and they allow extra-hospital treatment. Another advantage to consider is that they cause less limitations in daily life, which is associated with an increased quality of life. Placement of devices with camera of brachial location, was done by the first time by venotomy technique with many doubts; however, the results of placement success and the decreased complications, improved significantly when the placement began performing by vascular radiology services using fluoroscopy and ultrasound. Particularly striking is the success rate (between 99 % and 100 %) with a 0 % rate of placement complications (hemorrhage, pneumothorax). The infection rate is not flashy, remaining within normal parameters in relation to the pectoral systems. The rates of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) are assumable and they are consistent with other related studies. These devices are particularly useful in patients with abnormalities of chest wall such as dermal carcinoma and tumor shell in patients with breast cancer (tumour the bottom shell). And also when there are open wounds in the chest area, such as tracheotomy or fibrosis caused by radiation therapy, or in the presence of scars of flaps after surgery in head and neck cancer (or when it is expected that the patient will receive this surgery), severe kyphosis, obese patients and patients with respiratory failure (AU)

Emergência oncológica: atuação dos enfermeiros no extravasamento de drogas quimioterápicas antineoplásicas / Oncological emergency: the work of nurses in the extravasation of antineoplastic chemotherapeutic drugs

Objetivo: Investigar a atuação dos enfermeiros no extravasamento de quimioterápicos antineoplásicos. Métodos: Estudo transversal, com abordagem quantitativa, realizado em um hospital de referência em oncologia, com uma amostra de 21 enfermeiros. Os dados foram coletados por meio da aplicação de questionário semiestruturado, nos meses de outubro e novembro de 2015, analisados por meio da frequência simples e percentual. Resultados: Os enfermeiros evidenciaram conhecimento suficiente quanto aos fatores de risco, prevenção e reconhecimento de sinais e sintomas da ocorrência de extravasamento por quimioterápicos. No entanto, o mesmo não foi verificado quanto às questões relacionadas a: classificação das drogas antineoplásicas e intervenções voltadas à ocorrência do agravo. Conclusão: Os resultados encontrados são importantes, vez que apontam para questões que devem ser refletidas por gestores hospitalares e de instituições formadoras, assim como profissionais preocupados com a melhoria da assistência à população acometida por essa patologia.

The Effect of Intravenous Infiltration Management Program for Hospitalized Children.

UNLABELLED: This study aimed to identify the effect of IV infiltration management program among hospitalized children. DESIGN AND METHODS: This was a quasi-experimental study with history comparison group design with 2,894 catheters inserted during 3 months comparison phase and 3,651 catheters inserted during 4 months experimental phase. The intervention was composed of seven activities including applying poster, documentation of catheter insertion, parents education, making infiltration report, assessment of vein condition before inserting catheter, appropriate site selection, and documentation of catheter insertion, and assessment of peripheral catheter insertion site every shift. Data were analyzed using of X2-test, Fisher's exact test. RESULTS: The infiltration incidence rate was 0.9% for experimental group and 4.4% for comparison group, which was significantly different (x2=80.42, p<.001). The catheter maintenance period (p=.035) and infiltration state (p=.039) were significantly different among participants with infiltration between comparison and experimental groups. CONCLUSIONS: IV Infiltration management program was founded to be effective in reducing the IV infiltration incidence rate and increasing early detection of IV infiltration. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Considering the effect of IV Infiltration management program, we recommend that this infiltration management program would be widely used in the clinical settings.

Extravasación de mitomicina tras instilación postoperatoria / Mitomycin extravasation after postoperative instillation

OBJETIVO: Presentar el manejo terapéutico de complicaciones graves relacionadas con la extravasación de mitomicina postoperatoria. MÉTODOS: Descripción de los casos clínicos, el manejo médico y quirúrgico, y los resultados anatomopatológicos de las piezas quirúrgicas. RESULTADOS: Presentamos dos casos de pacientes con fuga extravesical de mitomicina tras su instilación en el postoperatorio. No se evidenció perforación de vejiga durante la cirugía del tumor. En ambos casos fue necesaria la realización de cistectomía radical. CONCLUSIONES: El uso de mitomicina en el postoperatorio puede tener consecuencias no deseables. Deben conocerse los problemas que pueden derivar de su administración e individualizar cada caso antes de administrar este quimioterápico

OBJECTIVE: To present the therapeutic management of severe complications related to postoperative mitomycin extravasation. METHODS: Description of clinical cases, medical and surgical management and pathologic results of surgical specimens. RESULTS: We report two cases of patients with extravesical mitomycin leakage after postoperative instillation. No bladder perforation was evident during tumor surgery. In both cases radical cystectomy was required. CONCLUSIONS: Postoperative mitomycin instillation may have undesirable consequences. The possible problems derived from its administration must be known, and each case must be individualized before administering this chemotherapy

Seguridad del paciente. Uso y administración de medios de contraste / Safety patient. Use and management of contrasst media

El presente artículo trata de destacar la seguridad del paciente y el papel fundamental de la enfermería en la administración de los medios de contraste dentro de las Unidades de Diagnóstico por Imagen, dos realidades de gran transcendencia en el ámbito sanitario. Se abordará qué son los medios de contraste, en qué exploraciones se usan, sus vías de administración, las reacciones adversas a los mismos y todo lo relacionado con la seguridad del paciente que siempre debe acompañar a nuestra práctica. Se incluye la información que se debe proporcionar al paciente, tanto oral como escrita (consentimiento informado) y el marco legislativo que nos acoge. El propósito de este trabajo es facilitar a la enfermera la actualización del conocimiento necesario para realizar de forma segura las intervenciones de cuidados enfermeros en el contexto de la realización de las técnicas de diagnóstico con medios de contraste (AU)

This article tries to point out the patient safety and the fundamental rol of nursing in the management of contrast media in the Imaging Diagnostic Services, two aspects of vital importance in the nurse practique. We will look at what the contrast agents are, how we can use them, what the routes of administration are, their adverse reactions and everything related to the patient safety that we, as professional, should do in our daily performance. And, of course, the process must include the information we need to give to the patient, verbally and written (informed consent) in the current legal framework. The aim of this work is to provide the nurse with updated knowledge that is necessary to carry out safety nursing care interventions within the context of the performance of diagnosis techniques using contrast agents (AU)

Level of adherence to an extravasation protocol over 10 years in a tertiary care hospital.

BACKGROUND: Extravasation of chemotherapy is an undesirable complication related to the administration of antineoplastic therapy. Establishing the real incidence is difficult. Because of the importance of a quick intervention after an extravasation, every hospital should have an extravasation protocol. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to determine the degree of observance of an extravasation protocol by nursing staff and to determine extravasation incidence. METHODS: This descriptive, longitudinal, retrospective study was set in a tertiary-level hospital. The researchers reviewed 117 extravasation notification forms received by the pharmacy department during a 10-year period. Nursing actuation, particularly observance of the extravasation protocol, was analyzed. FINDINGS: Protocol adherence was 89%. Twelve deviations from the protocol in the application of recommended measures were detected. An antidote was used in 41 patients, and temperature measures were applied in 14 cases. Ninety-nine patients had at least one episode of reported follow-up. No cases of necrosis or skin ulcers were described, except by one patient, who developed a delayed skin ulcer to vinorelbine. Drugs most frequently reported were etoposide, carboplatin, and paclitaxel. Nursing staff should be continuously trained in extravasation protocol because a rapid actuation can prevent skin lesions.

Treatment of skin lesions in newborn children: meeting the needs of nursing staff / Tratamiento de lesiones de piel en recién nacidos: conociendo las necesidades del equipo de enfermería / Tratamento de lesões de pele em recém-nascidos: conhecendo as necessidades da equipe de enfermagem

Objective To understand, together with nursing staff, the care needed to treat skin lesions in newborn children hospitalized in a neonatal unit. Method Qualitative research, of the convergent care type. The data was collected through semi-structured interviews, which were conducted from November to December 2012, in the neonatal unit of a hospital in southern Brazil. The participants were four auxiliary nurses, six nursing technicians and four nurses. Results The following three categories were designated: questions about what can be used in relation to newborn children; hospitalization can cause lesions on the skin of newborn children; and knowledge about care promotes professional autonomy. Conclusion There is an urgent need for staff to know more about the treatment of skin lesions, which would provide safer care for newborn children and would also support the autonomy of professional nurses in providing that care.
 .

Objetivo Conhecer, junto à equipe de enfermagem, os cuidados necessários para tratamento de lesões de pele em recém-nascidos internados em uma Unidade Neonatal. Método Pesquisa qualitativa do tipo Convergente Assistencial. Os dados foram obtidos por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas, realizadas nos meses de novembro a dezembro de 2012, na Unidade Neonatal de um hospital do Sul do Brasil. Participaram da pesquisa quatro auxiliares de enfermagem, seis técnicos de enfermagem e quatro enfermeiras. Resultados Originaram-se três categorias: dúvidas sobre o que se pode utilizar no recém-nascido; a internação pode acarretar lesões na pele do recém-nascido; e o conhecimento do cuidado promove autonomia profissional. Conclusão Torna-se urgente a necessidade de conhecimento da equipe sobre o tratamento de lesões, propiciando o atendimento mais seguro ao recém-nascido e favorecendo a autonomia do profissional enfermeiro na realização do cuidado.

 .

Objetivo Conocer, junto al equipo de enfermería, los cuidados necesarios para el tratamiento de lesiones de piel en recién nacidos internados en una Unidad Neonatal. Método Investigación cualitativa del tipo Convergente Asistencial. Los datos fueron obtenidos por medio de entrevistas semiestructuradas, realizadas en los meses de noviembre a deciembre de 2012, en la Unidad Neonatal de un hospital del Sur de Brasil. Participaron de la investigación cuatro auxiliares de enfermería, seis técnicos de enfermería y cuatro enfermeras. Resultados Se originaron tres categorías: dudas acerca de lo que se puede utilizar en el recién nacido; la estancia hospitalaria puede causar lesiones en la piel del recién nacido; y el conocimiento del cuidado promueve autonomía profesional. Conclusión Se hace urgente la necesidad de conocimiento del equipo acerca del tratamiento de las lesiones, a fin de proporcionar una atención más segura al recién nacido y favorecer la autonomía del profesional enfermero en la puesta en marcha del cuidado. .

[Treatment of skin lesions in newborn children: meeting the needs of nursing staff]. / Tratamento de lesões de pele em recémnascidos: comhecendo as necessidades da equipe de enfermagem.

OBJECTIVE: To understand, together with nursing staff, the care needed to treat skin lesions in newborn children hospitalized in a neonatal unit. METHOD: Qualitative research, of the convergent care type. The data was collected through semi-structured interviews, which were conducted from November to December 2012, in the neonatal unit of a hospital in southern Brazil. The participants were four auxiliary nurses, six nursing technicians and four nurses. RESULTS: The following three categories were designated: questions about what can be used in relation to newborn children; hospitalization can cause lesions on the skin of newborn children; and knowledge about care promotes professional autonomy. CONCLUSION: There is an urgent need for staff to know more about the treatment of skin lesions, which would provide safer care for newborn children and would also support the autonomy of professional nurses in providing that care.


Prise en charge de l'extravasation associée aux traitements antinéoplasiques: guide de pratique clinique / Management of extravasation associated with antineoplastic treatments: a clinical practice guide

CONTEXTE ET OBJECTIFS: L'extravasation est une complication potentiellement grave pouvant survenir au cours de l'administration de la chimiothérapie. Peu de données probantes sont disponibles pour permettre l'élaboration d'un schéma de prise en charge optimale. Le présent guide a été préparé par le Comité de l'évolution des pratiques en oncologie (CEPO) en collaboration avec le sous-comité dédié aux guides et aux conseils du Comité de l'évolution de la pratique des soins pharmaceutiques à la Direction québécoise de cancérologie du ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux. L'objectif est de faire état de la documentation scientifique pertinente concernant la prise en charge et le traitement de l'extravasation survenue au cours de l'administration de chimiothérapie à des patients atteints de cancer. MÉTHODES: Une revue de la documentation scientifique a été effectuée dans l'outil de recherche Pubmed. La période couverte s'est étendue du début de l'existence de la banque jusqu'à avril 2014 inclusivement. La littérature concernant le traitement de l'extravasation est bien souvent empirique, anecdotique et controversée. Pour ces raisons, les recommandations pour la pratique clinique et les consensus d'experts publiés par certains organismes internationaux et agences de cancer ont également été répertoriés. Ils proviennent, notamment, de la British Columbia Cancer Agency (BCCA), de l'European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) en collaboration avec l'European Oncology Nursing Society (EONS), du Gippsland Oncology Nurses Group (GONG), du Humber and Yorkshire Coast Cancer Network (HYCCN), de l'Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) et du West of Scotland Cancer Advisory Network Clinical Leads Group (WOSCAN). RÉSULTATS: La détermination des facteurs de risque potentiels ainsi que l'application des méthodes de prévention peuvent diminuer les risques d'extravasation. La reconnaissance et la prise en charge des symptômes deviennent essentielles pour les patients touchés par cette complication. L'enseignement adéquat aux patients concernant les symptômes à surveiller de même qu'au personnel responsable de l'administration de la chimiothérapie, de la prévention et de la prise en charge de l'extravasation est essentiel. L'utilisation de compresses sèches tièdes ou froides ainsi que de divers antidotes déterminés en fonction de l'agent responsable permet de traiter l'extravasation. L'utilisation du diméthylsulfoxide (DMSO), de la dexrazoxane, de l'hyaluronidase ou du thiosulfate de sodium est recommandée selon l'agent en cause de l'extravasation. Une approche chirurgicale doit être considérée lorsque le traitement conservateur avec les antidotes est insuffisant ou en présence de morbidités sévères. Le suivi des patients permet d'évaluer la progression ou la régression des symptômes et ainsi de prendre les mesures appropriées. Le temps de suivi est variable selon les progrès cliniques observés. L'utilisation d'un gabarit validé permettra d'optimiser la collecte d'information. RECOMMANDATIONS: Considérant les données probantes disponibles à ce jour et les lignes directrices publiées par divers organismes (BCCA, ESMO-EONS, GONG, HYCCN, ONS et WOSCAN), le CEPO recommande (recommandation de grade D à moins d'avis contraire): Général: 1. Que toutes les chimiothérapies soient administrées dans des centres où le personnel est qualifié; 2. Que le personnel responsable de l'administration de la chimiothérapie reçoive une formation adéquate pour la prévention et la prise en charge de l'extravasation; 3. Qu'une procédure documentée et facilement accessible soit mise en place dans les centres administrant de la chimiothérapie. La présence d'une ou de plusieurs trousses destinées au traitement de l'extravasation est fortement conseillée; 4. Que les patients soient informés du risque possible d'extravasation, des mesures de prévention et qu'ils soient formés à reconnaître les premiers symptômes afin d'en aviser immédiatement le personnel; 5. Que le ou les agents vésicants soient administrés en premier lorsque plusieurs agents différents sont donnés, si le protocole le permet; Traitement: Extravasation par voie périphérique: 6. Qu'un type de compresse particulier soit utilisé en fonction de l'agent antinéoplasique ayant causé l'extravasation: a. Compresse sèche froide (0 oC, 20 à 30 minutes à la fois et répétée 4 fois par jour pour les 24 à 48 premières heures suivant l'extravasation); b. Compresse sèche tiède (44 à 50 oC, 20 à 30 minutes à la fois et répétée 4 fois par jour pour les 24 à 48 premières heures suivant l'extravasation) 7. Que le DMSO (99 %, 4 gouttes/10 cm2 aux 6 à 8 heures pour 7 à 14 jours à débuter dans les 10 premières minutes suivant l'extravasation) soit utilisé pour le traitement de l'extravasation aux agents suivants: a. Mitomycine C. b. Anthracyclines, à défaut d'une possibilité de traitement avec la dexrazoxane dans les 6 heures suivant l'extravasation; 8. Que la dexrazoxane (1 000 mg/m2 [maximum: 2 000 mg/dose] aux jours 1 et 2 puis 500 mg/m2 [maximum : 1 000 mg/dose] au jour 3) soit utilisée pour le traitement de l'extravasation aux anthracyclines (recommandation de grade A). Un réseau de distribution pourrait être mis en place pour faciliter la disponibilité du produit; 9. Que l'hyaluronidase (150 à 1 500 unités (U); 150 U/ml dans la voie ou 1 500 U/ml pour 5 injections de 0,2 ml) soit utilisée pour le traitement de l'extravasation aux alcaloïdes de la vinca. Un réseau de distribution pourrait être mis en place pour faciliter la disponibilité du produit; 10.Que les corticostéroïdes systémiques ne soient pas utilisés pour le traitement de l'extravasation; 11.Que les corticostéroïdes topiques soient utilisés si nécessaire pour le traitement de l'inflammation autour du site d'extravasation, sauf en présence d'alcaloïdes de la vinca et d'épipodophyllotoxines; 12.Qu'une consultation en chirurgie soit demandée si la condition médicale du patient le justifie; 13.Que soient appliquées les mesures de l'algorithme A-1 pour la prise en charge de l'extravasation par voie périphérique. Extravasation par voie centrale: 14.Que le diagnostic soit confirmé par veinographie ou par imagerie; 15.Que la dexrazoxane (1 000 mg/m2 [maximum: 2 000 mg/dose] aux jours 1 et 2 puis 500 mg/m2 [maximum : 1 000 mg/dose] au jour 3) soit utilisée pour le traitement de l'extravasation aux anthracyclines (recommandation de grade A); 16.Que soient appliquées les mesures de l'algorithme A-2 pour la prise en charge de l'extravasation par voie centrale (annexe A); Suivi et documentation: 17.Que chaque incident d'extravasation soit documenté dans le dossier médical et rapporté de manière exhaustive. L'utilisation d'un gabarit contenant toute l'information à recueillir est fortement conseillée; 18.Qu'un rapport d'incident soit complété (formulaire AH-223), suivant la politique locale de l'établissement; 19.Qu'un suivi soit fait aux 24 à 48 heures pendant la première semaine puis aux semaines si amélioration jusqu'à la résolution des symptômes.(AU)

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Extravasation is a potentially serious complication that can occur during the administration of chemotherapy. There is little evidence for developing an optimal management scheme. This guideline was prepared by the Comité de l'évolution des pratiques en oncologie (CEPO) in cooperation with the guideline and advice subcommittee of the Comité de l'évolution de la pratique des soins pharmaceutiques of the Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux's Direction québécoise de cancérologie. The objective was to examine the relevant scientific literature on the management and treatment of extravasation that occurs when chemotherapy is administered to cancer patients. METHODS: A scientific literature review was conducted using the PubMed search tool. The period covered was from the inception of the database up to and including April 2014. The literature on the treatment of extravasation is very often empirical, anecdotal and much debated. For these reasons, the clinical practice recommendations and expert consensuses published by certain international organizations and cancer agencies were included as well. In particular, they are from the British Columbia Cancer Agency (BCCA), the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) in conjunction with the European Oncology Nursing Society (EONS), the Gippsland Oncology Nurses Group (GONG), the Humber and Yorkshire Coast Cancer Network (HYCCN), the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) and the West of Scotland Cancer Advisory Network Clinical Leads Group (WOSCAN). RESULTS: Determining the potential risk factors and taking preventive measures can reduce the risk of extravasation. Recognizing and managing the symptoms is essential in patients with this complication. Providing adequate instruction on the symptoms to watch for to patients and to personnel responsible for administering chemotherapy, preventing and managing extravasation is essential. Warm or cold, dry compresses and various antidotes, which are determined according to the agent involved, are used to treat extravasation. The use of dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), dexrazoxane, hyaluronidase or sodium thiosulfate is recommended, depending on the agent that has extravasated. Consideration should be given to a surgical approach when conservative treatment with antidotes is inadequate or if the patient has severe morbidities. Patients are monitored to assess the progression or regression of symptoms and to thus take the appropriate measures. Monitoring time varies according to the observed clinical progress. A validated template can be used to optimize information gathering. RECOMMENDATIONS: Given the evidence available at this time and the guidelines published by various organizations (BCCA, ESMO-EONS, GONG, HYCCN, ONS and WOSCAN), the CEPO recommends (Grade D recommendation, unless indicated otherwise): General: 1. That all chemotherapies be administered at facilities whose personnel are qualified; 2. That personnel responsible for administering chemotherapy be adequately trained in extravasation prevention and management; 3. That a written and easily accessible procedure be established at facilities that administer chemotherapy. Having one or more extravasation treatment kits on hand is strongly advised; 4. That patients be informed of the potential risk of extravasation and of the preventive measures, and that they be trained to recognize the initial symptoms so that they can inform the personnel at once; 5. That the vesicant or vesicants be administered first when several different agents are to be given, if the protocol allows this; TREATMENT: Peripheral extravasation: 6. That a specific type of compress be used according to the extravasated antineoplastic agent: a) A cold, dry compress (0 °C, 20 to 30 minutes at a time and repeated 4 times a day for the first 24 to 48 hours after the extravasation. b. A warm, dry compress (44 to 50 °C, 20 to 30 minutes at a time and repeated 4 times a day for the first 24 to 48 hours after the extravasation). 7. That DMSO (99%, 4 drops/10 cm2 every 6 to 8 hours for 7 to 14 days, starting within the first 10 minutes after the extravasation) be used to treat extravasation of the following agents: a.) Mitomycin C; b) Anthracyclines, if treatment with dexrazoxane within the first 6 hours after the extravasation is not possible. 8. That dexrazoxane (1000 mg/m2 [maximum: 2000 mg/dose] on days 1 and 2, then 500 mg/m2 [maximum: 1000 mg/dose] on day 3) be used to treat the extravasation of anthracyclines (Grade A recommendation). A distribution network could be put in place to facilitate access to dexrazoxane; 9. That hyaluronidase (150 to 1500 units (U); 150 U/mL into the line or 1500 U/mL for five 0.2-mL injections) be used to treat the extravasation of vinca alkaloids. A distribution network could be put in place to facilitate access to hyaluronidase; 10.That systemic corticosteroids not be used to treat extravasation; 11. That topical corticosteroids be used if necessary to treat inflammation around the extravasation site, except if the patient is receiving vinca alkaloids or epipodophyllotoxins; 12.That a surgical consultation be requested if warranted by the patient's medical condition; 13.That the measures indicated in Algorithm A-1 be taken to manage peripheral extravasation; Central extravasation: 14.That the diagnosis be confirmed by venography or imaging; 15.That dexrazoxane (1000 mg/m2 [maximum: 2000 mg/dose] on days 1 and 2, then 500 mg/m2 [maximum: 1000 mg/dose] on day 3) be used to treat the extravasation of anthracyclines (Grade A recommendation); 16.That the measures indicated in Algorithm A-2 be taken to manage central extravasation; Follow-up and documentation: 17.That each extravasation incident be recorded in the patient's chart and exhaustively reported. The use of a template indicating all the information that needs to be gathered is strongly recommended; 18.That an incident report be completed (Form AH-223) in accordance with the facility's local policy; 19.That a follow-up be done every 24 to 48 hours during the first week, then every week, if there is improvement, until the symptoms resolve.(AU)

Dexrazoxane: a management option for anthracycline extravasations.

AIMS: This article reviews the efficacy and place in therapy of dexrazoxane (Savene®) for the treatment of anthracycline extravasation, highlighting the lack of inclusion of Savene in most UK cancer network and organisational treatment guidelines. Here we offer advice to nurses on making a case to ensure the availability of Savene. KEY FINDINGS: In 2010, the UK National Extravasation Information Service (NEXIS) green card scheme reported that anthracyclines were the second most common agent involved in extravasations, but they carry the greatest risk to the patient because of their potentially serious consequences. Anthracycline extravasations therefore require prompt and effective treatment. Due to the infrequent occurrence of anthracycline extravasations, their accidental nature and ethical considerations, conducting randomised controlled clinical trials in this therapy area is not possible. As treatment decisions should always be made on patient-specific factors, health professionals need to demonstrate the rationale for choosing a particular course of action when presented with an anthracycline extravasation, especially when we are moving into an era of increased medical litigation. There are several possible treatment options, some of which require demonstrable local core competencies in order to be considered for a particular patient. Based on the available evidence, Savene-the only licensed antidote-is recommended as an effective management strategy for anthracycline extravasation and should be made available in all settings where chemotherapy is administered. However, a high percentage of nurses administering chemotherapy still do not have access to Savene, as it has not been included in their local guidelines for the management of extravasations. Thus, in a large part of the UK, this important treatment option is not available, leaving a significant unmet need (Figure 1). CONCLUSIONS: As nurses play a key role in the prevention, detection, and management of extravasations, they should also assume a key role in ensuring that their local protocols include all appropriate management strategies. Where appropriate, if Savene is not included in the treatment guidelines, nurses should feel empowered to encourage their trust and Specialist Commissioning Groups (SCGs) to make it available, and thus minimise the serious risks associated with anthracycline extravasations.

A avaliação da rede venosa pela enfermagem em mulheres com câncer ginecológico durante o tratamento quimioterápico / Venous network assessment by nursing in women with gynecological cancer during chemotherapy treatment / Evaluación de la red venosa por la enfermería en mujeres con cáncer ginecológico durante el tratamiento de quimioterapia

Estudo de abordagem exploratória e descritiva que teve como objetivos: avaliar a rede venosa das mulheres com câncer cérvico uterino, no início e ao final do tratamento quimioterápico; analisar a ocorrência de flebite provocada pelas drogas utilizadas nos protocolos de quimioterapia neoadjuvante e adjuvante e relacionar os tipos de veia com os dispositivos mais utilizados, tempo de permanência e intercorrências. Utilizou-se um instrumento de avaliação da rede venosa para os membros superiores. Foram incluídas 20 mulheres atendidas em um hospital de ensino do interior do Estado de São Paulo. A avaliação da rede venosa demonstrou poucas alterações, e a intercorrência mais frequente foi o hematoma (60%). Os resultados deste estudo apontam para aspectos da prática de enfermagem relacionados à administração de quimioterápicos e ressaltam a necessidade de elaborar e implantar protocolos para o cuidado.

This descriptive and exploratory study aimed to evaluate the venous network of women with cervical uterine cancer, at the beginning and at the end of the chemotherapy treatment; to analyze the occurrence of phlebitis caused by the drugs used in protocols of neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy and to relate the types of vein with the most used devices, length of stay and complications. An instrument was used to evaluate the venous network for upper limbs. Participants were twenty women who received care at a teaching hospital in the interior of the state of Sao Paulo. The evaluation of the venous network presented little changes and hematoma was the most frequent complication (60%). The results point out aspects of the nursing practice, related to the administration of chemotherapeutic agents, and highlight the need to develop and implement care protocols.

Este estudio exploratorio y descriptivo tuvo como objetivos evaluar la red venosa de las mujeres con cáncer de cuello uterino en el comienzo y el final del tratamiento quimioterápico, analizar la ocurrencia de flebitis causada por los fármacos utilizados en los protocolos de quimioterapia neo adyuvante y adyuvante, y relacionar los tipos de venas con los dispositivos más utilizados, tiempo de permanencia y complicaciones. Se utilizó un instrumento para evaluar la red venosa de los miembros superiores. Participaron 20 mujeres tratadas en un hospital de enseñanza en el interior del estado de São Paulo. La evaluación de la red venosa mostró pocas alteraciones y la complicación más frecuente fue el hematoma (60%). Los resultados del estudio apuntan aspectos de la práctica de enfermería relacionados a la administración de agentes quimioterápicos y señalan la necesidad de desarrollar e implementar protocolos de atención.

Antineoplastic agents extravasation from peripheral intravenous line in children: a simple strategy for a safer nursing care.

PURPOSE: The antineoplastic agents infusion through peripheral lines may lead to several adverse events such as extravasation that is one of the most severe acute reactions of this sort of treatment. The extravasation prevention and management must be part of a safe and evidence-based nursing care. Due to this fact, two algorithms were developed with the purpose of guiding nursing care to children who undergo chemotherapy through peripheral line. The objectives of this study were to determine the content validity of both algorithms with pediatric oncology nurses in Brazil and United States of America, and to verify the agreement between the evaluations of both groups. METHODS AND SAMPLE: A descriptive validation study was carried out through the Delphi Technique that has the following steps: development of the data collection instrument, application to the specialists, data analysis, algorithms' review, re-evaluation by the specialists, final data analysis and content validity determination. RESULTS: The data analysis was descriptive and based on the specialists agreement consensus equal or higher than 80% in every step of the algorithms. The process showed that the agreement with both instruments ranged from 92.8% to 99.0%. CONCLUSION: The algorithms are valid for application in nursing care with the main purpose of preventing and managing the antineoplastic agents' extravasation.

Extravasamento de drogas antineoplásicas: avaliação do conhecimento da equipe de enfermagem / Extravasacion de drogas antineoplasicas: evaluacion del conocimiento del equipo de enfermeria / Extravasation of antineoplastic drugs: assessment of the nursing team knowledge

A toxicidade dermatológica local decorrente do extravasamento de drogas antineoplásicas consiste em um dosprincipais efeitos adversos da terapia antineoplásica, sendo considerada uma autêntica emergência oncológica.Dado o exposto, a prevenção dessa complicação é uma importante medida, uma vez que gera estresse na equipede enfermagem e pode causar danos irreparáveis ao paciente. O objetivo foi avaliar o conhecimento da equipe deenfermagem de um Ambulatório de Quimioterapia Adulto sobre o extravasamento de drogas antineoplásicas. Esta éuma pesquisa exploratório-descritiva, de natureza quantitativa, desenvolvida em um hospital filantrópico, referênciaem oncologia na cidade de Curitiba-PR. A amostra foi composta por nove funcionários da equipe de enfermagem(33% enfermeiros e 67% técnicos de enfermagem). Os sinais e sintomas do extravasamento mais citados foramedema(89%), hiperemia (78%), dor (67%) e queimação/ardor (33%). Comrelação aos fatores de risco para o extravasamento,os mais citados foram“local da punção”(44%),“condições do membro puncionado”(33%) e“veias esclerosadas”(33%).Não houve consenso quanto à correta ordem de punção das veias para a realização de quimioterapia. A prevenção doextravasamento é uma preocupação constante na prática clínica dos enfermeiros. Neste estudo, traz-se a importânciade um aperfeiçoamento em serviço e a elaboração de uma diretriz clínica, a fim de que os profissionais identifiquemos pacientes com maior risco de extravasamento, procurando evitá-lo, em vez de apenas tratá-lo após ocorrido.

Local dermatologic toxicitydue to extravasation of antineoplastic drugs is one of the main adverse effects ofantineoplastic therapy and it is considered an oncologic emergency. Itsprevention is vital since it isasource of stressto the nursing team and it may cause irreparable harmto the patient.This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge of thenursing staff at an Adult Outpatient Chemotherapy Unit about antineoplastic drugs extravasation. It is an exploratory,descriptive and quantitative research carried out in a philantropic referral hospital for oncology in Curitiba (PR). Thesample consisted of nine nursing staff employees (33% nurses and 67% practical nurses). Themost cited extravasationsigns and symptomswere“oedema”(89%),“hyperaemia”(78%),“pain”(67%), and“burnings/stinging”(33%). Regarding therisk factors for extravasation, the most cited were“puncture site”(44%),“punctured limb condition”(33%), and“sclerosedveins”(33%).There was no consensus on the correct order to veinipuncture previous to the chemotherapy performance.Extravasation prevention is a constant concern in the nurses clinical practice.This study shows the importance of nursingcare refresher training and the elaboration of clinical guidelines, so that professionals can identify patients at higher riskof extravasavion aiming at preventing its occurrence instead of treating it afterwards.

La toxicidad dermatológica local resultante de la extravasación de drogas antineoplásicas consiste en uno de losprincipales efectos adversos de la terapia antineoplásica y se la considera una auténtica emergencia oncológica. Laprevención de esta complicación es una medida importante puesto que esta grave intercurrencia genera estrés enel equipo de enfermería y puede causar daños irreparables al paciente. Se ha buscado evaluar el conocimiento delequipo de enfermería de un Dispensario de Quimioterapia Adulto sobre la extravasación de drogas antineoplásicas. Setrata de una investigación exploratoria descriptiva de naturaleza cuantitativa, desarrollada en un hospital filantrópicode referencia en oncología en la ciudad de Curitiba (PR). La muestra estuvo compuesta por 9 integrantes del equipode enfermería (33% enfermeros y 67% técnicos en enfermería). Las señales y los síntomas del extravasación másnombrados fueron: edema (89%), hiperemia (78%), dolor (67%)yardor (33%). En lo relativo a los factoresde riesgo parala extravasación, los más nombrados fueron“sitio de la punción” (44%),“condiciones del miembro puncionado” (33%)y“venas esclerosadas”(33%). No hubo consenso sobre la orden de punción correcta de las venas para la realización dequimioterapia. La prevención de la extravasación es una preocupación constante en la práctica clínica de los enfermeros.El presente estudio expone la importancia de un perfeccionamiento en el servicio y de la elaboración de una directivaclínica, con la finalidad de que los profesionales identifiquen a los pacientes con mayor riesgo de extravasación, paraque traten de evitarla, en lugar de apenas tratarla después de que ocurra.

Anthracycline extravasations: prevention and management.

This article highlights the importance of being knowledgeable about anthracycline extravasations, including their prevention, early detection, and prompt and effective management. It also emphasizes the need for chemotherapy nurses to document and report all extravasations when they occur, summarizes the current management options, and offers recommendations for clinical practice. Extravasation refers to the unintentional administration of an agent into the surrounding tissue instead of the venous system; in this case, vesicant chemotherapy. Anthracycline extravasations can lead to significant and lasting tissue damage, infection, pain, and functional impairment; they remain a feared consequence for both the patient receiving the chemotherapy and the nurse administering it. The management of anthracycline extravasations remains a constant challenge to the professionals caring for the patient. One of these challenges is the lack of evidence for many of the treatment options available. The systemic antidote Savene® is the only approved treatment for anthracycline extravasations. It has proved highly efficacious and well-tolerated in prospective clinical studies and in routine clinical practice. Despite national and international professional organizations recommending Savene in their extravasation guidelines, many cancer networks in England still exclude it from their local protocol. Funding decisions regarding the use of supportive treatments are often made on the basis of clinical need; it is, therefore, imperative that nurses promptly report all extravasations or they will remain unknown and management of extravasations will not improve.

Implementation of a protocol for the prevention and management of extravasation injuries in the neonatal intensive care patient.

AIM: This project sought to determine nurses' understanding and management of infants with intravenous (IV) therapy. There were three specific aims: • To improve identification and management of extravasation injuries in neonates • To ensure management of extravasation injuries in neonates is classified according to IV extravasation staging guidelines • To develop a protocol that outlined actions required to manage extravasation injuries. METHODS: This project utilised a pre- and post-implementation audit strategy using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Getting Research into Practice (GRIP) program. This method has been used to improve clinical practice by utilising an audit, feedback and re-audit sequence. The project was implemented in four stages over a 7-month period from 21 October 2009 to 30 May 2010. RESULTS: Initially, there was poor compliance with all four criteria, ranging from zero to 63%. The GRIP phase of the project identified five barriers which were addressed throughout this project. These related to education of staff and the development of a protocol for the prevention and management of extravasation injuries in the neonatal population. Following implementation of best practice, the second audit showed a marked improvement in all four criteria, ranging from 70 to 100% compliance. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, this project has led to improvements in clinical practice in line with current evidence. This has resulted in enhanced awareness of the risks associated with IV therapy and of measures to prevent an injury occurring within this clinical setting.