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New Device Minimizes Radiation Exposure Associated with X-rays during PICC Placements
PHOENIX, Ariz. (Jan. 13, 2011) – PHOENIX – St. Luke’s Medical Center was officially named the first hospital in Arizona to use the new Sapiens™ Tip Confirmation System (TCS). This new technology enables specially trained registered nurses to more accurately and efficiently place peripherally inserted central catheter lines, or PICC lines, without the use and cost of an X-ray.
PICC lines are used to administer certain types of intravenous medications, including chemotherapy, antibiotics and nutrition regimens for patients suffering from a variety of diseases and disorders, such as cancer, pneumonia, ulcers, AIDS, burns and more. A PICC line requires accurate placement as it is inserted into a vein in a patient’s upper arm and must reach a large vessel or vein near the heart.
Tip confirmation technology is used as an alternative method to chest X-ray or fluoroscopy for PICC tip placements. “By using the Sapiens™ TCS, we’re eliminating radiation exposure for most patients and the clinical staff during PICC placements, resulting in safer medical care,” said Angela Miranda, R.N., lead vascular access team member at St. Luke’s Medical Center.
Sapiens™ TCS also provides real-time tip location information by using the patient’s own cardiac electrical activity. With real-time tip confirmation, the clinical staff can more accurately place PICC lines, spending less time repositioning lines or waiting for X-ray confirmation of PICC placement. As a result, patients benefit from the immediate release of the PICC lines, which helps to reduce the time associated with infusion therapy.
Miranda added, “The team at St. Luke’s Medical Center takes great pride in providing the best intravenous access so that patients can be treated quickly, effectively and with the least amount of risk as possible.”
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