The ivWatch system has proven to be highly effective in preventing IV leakage incidents at Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust. A recent study published in the British Journal of Nursing revealed that 100% of IV leakage events were avoided by using the proprietary patient monitoring system from ivWatch. This not only reduces the risk of patients experiencing pain or discomfort from adverse IV events, but also allows for early detection of infiltration and extravasation events.
During the initial two-week phase of the study, continuous site monitoring with the ivWatch system detected infiltration and extravasation events earlier than visual observation alone, with a 100% detection rate for IV infiltration incidents. The study was then extended to a second phase in the IV therapy and vascular access unit, where 2,254 IVs were monitored using ivWatch’s SmartTouch sensor.
Over 3,507 hours of monitoring, the system issued 122 red Check IV notifications, successfully identifying and preventing injuries in 5.4% of infusion activities. This early identification of IV leakage plays a crucial role in minimizing patient discomfort and preventing extravasation injuries.
The ivWatch sensor and monitor conduct over 18,000 checks per hour when applied near the IV site, utilizing a predictive algorithm and visible and near-infrared light to detect changes in tissue optical properties. Study author Andrew Barton, NHS nurse consultant and NIVAS chair, highlighted the positive feedback from both patients and infusion nurses regarding the use of ivWatch, emphasizing the enhanced feeling of safety and reassurance provided by the system.
