Evaluation of A-DIVA Score Effectiveness at Admission for Preserving Venous Capital in Patients With Difficult Access
This study is testing a system called A-DIVA, which helps nurses figure out the best place to put a drip (intravenous line) when you're admitted to hospital. Sometimes, it can be tricky to find a good vein, leading to several needle pokes, pain, and delays. The A-DIVA tool helps predict how difficult it might be to put in a drip. By using this tool, the study hopes to reduce the number of times a nurse needs to try and insert a needle, making the experience more comfortable for patients and preserving their veins for future treatments. We want to see if this tool improves how we care for patients.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When you're ill and in hospital, you might need a drip, also known as an intravenous (IV) line. This is a small tube put into your vein, usually in your arm or hand, to give you medicines or fluids. For some people, finding a good vein can be quite difficult. This might be because their veins are very thin, deep, or have been used a lot before. When this happens, nurses might have to try several times to get the needle in, which can be painful, frustrating, and sometimes delay your treatment. It can also make your veins less healthy over time, which doctors call 'preserving your venous capital'.
This study is looking at a new way to help with this problem. It uses a special tool called the A-DIVA score (Adult-Difficult IntraVenous Access). Before a nurse attempts to put in a drip, they would use this tool to assess your veins and predict how easy or difficult it might be. The idea is that by knowing this beforehand, nurses can choose the best vein and the best approach right from the start, avoiding unnecessary attempts and making the process smoother for you.
The main goal of this research is to see if using the A-DIVA tool can reduce the number of pokes patients receive when getting a drip. We hope this will make your stay more comfortable, reduce pain, and ensure you get your treatments quickly and without interruption. It's all about improving your experience and taking better care of your veins during your hospital stay.
Key takeaways
- This study aims to make getting a drip more comfortable.
- It tests a tool (A-DIVA) to help nurses find the best veins for drips.
- The goal is to reduce the number of needle pokes and pain.
- Participation means either using the tool or receiving standard care.
- It is for adults aged 18 and over, admitted to hospital.
Who may be eligible?
This study is for adults aged 18 or over. Both men and women can take part. You must be able to understand the study and provide your written agreement to participate.
There are certain situations where you wouldn't be able to join. For example, if you are in the intensive care unit, have certain mental health conditions, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you are already involved in another medical study that involves treatments.
Also, if you are receiving very strong chemotherapy drugs or certain types of solutions through a drip, you wouldn't be eligible. The study is not open to children under 18, or if you are near the end of your life. If you decline to take part, that's perfectly fine, and you won't be included.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Are you currently in hospital but NOT in intensive care?
- Are you able to provide written permission?
- Are you NOT pregnant or breastfeeding?
- Are you NOT involved in another medical study testing a treatment?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to join this study, we'll first make sure you understand everything and then ask for your written permission. After that, you'll be randomly put into one of two groups, like flipping a coin.
If you're in Group A, a special study nurse will use the A-DIVA tool to carefully check your veins before any drip is put in during your hospital stay. If you're in Group B, you'll receive the usual care you would normally get in the hospital, and the A-DIVA tool won't be used for you.
No extra hospital visits are required for this study beyond your normal hospital stay, and you won't be given any new medications. The study simply observes how drips are put in, either with or without the A-DIVA tool being used first. The total duration of your participation would be for the length of your current hospital stay.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- CHI Robert BallangerVerified postcodeAulnay-sous-Bois, France
Common questions
What is a 'drip' or 'IV line'?
It's a small plastic tube inserted into a vein, usually in your arm, to give you medicines or fluids directly into your bloodstream.
What is 'venous capital'?
This refers to the health and usability of your veins. We want to preserve them so they can be used for future treatments if needed.
Will I get different medical care if I join the study?
No, you will still receive all the medical care you need. This study only changes how nurses might assess your veins before putting in a drip.
Is the A-DIVA tool painful to use?
No, the A-DIVA tool is just an assessment conducted by a nurse; it doesn't involve any needles or cause any pain.
Can I still say no after agreeing to join?
Yes, you have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, and it won't affect your medical care.
How to find out more
Eric MORTUREUX, PI
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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