Device profile of the Orchid safety release valve for the prevention of accidental catheter dislodgement.

INTRODUCTION

More than 4 out of 5 patients in acute care require intravenous catheters. Complications of catheter dislodgement and failure are commonly reported at rates of 15-69% causing interrupted treatment and greater resource consumption when catheter replacement is required.

AREAS COVERED

This manuscript outlines unmet needs in the prevention of catheter dislodgement and how a novel safety release device (Orchid SRV™, Linear Health Sciences) might address these gaps based on available evidence.

EXPERT OPINION

Healthcare initiatives focus on reducing complications and associated costs with the delivery of intravenous treatments. Tension-activated safety release valve devices, attached to intravenous tubing, are a new feature that adds a level of safety to intravenous catheters to reduce mechanical catheter dislodgement when a pull force of greater than 3 pounds is applied. Incorporating a tension-activated accessory into and between existing intravenous tubing and the catheter and extension set protects the catheter from dislodgement. Flow continues until excessive pull force separates and closes the flow pathway in both directions, while the SRV provides a quick replacement to reestablish flow. The safety release valve is used to prevent accidental catheter dislodgement, limit tubing contamination, and avoid more serious complications while maintaining a functional catheter.