Universal adhesive vascular access securement with Grip-Lok devices

Vascular access devices (VADs) are a vital part of health care (Alexandrou et al, 2015). Whether they are peripheral intravenous (IV) cannulas, peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) or acute central venous catheters (CVCs), all require careful consideration and planning before their insertion, as well as aftercare and maintenance.

After insertion, one of the most significant considerations for an indwelling VAD is securement. Different devices require different levels of this; PIVs, for example, can be secured with bespoke semipermeable IV film dressings, while longer term devices such as PICCs or midline catheters will need a more robust, secure solution. Adhesive securement devices are preferred over sutures because they offer securement without additional skin punctures.

Sutures were historically the only way to secure central VADs but, over time, adhesive solutions have been developed to replace sutures. Adhesive securement devices, such as the Grip-Lok (TIDI Products) and Statlock (BD), and invasive securement devices, such as SecurAcath (Interrad Medical), offer sutureless securement, especially for PICCs. However, the practice of suturing acute central venous catheters and tunnelled catheters continues (Inwood, 2014; Struck et al, 2019).