The use of in-line intravenous filters in sick newborn infants

• Published in: Acta pædiatrica (Oslo) 2004-05, Vol.93 (5), p.658-662
• Main Authors: VAN LINGEN, R. A, BAERTS, W, MARQUERING, A. C. M, RUIJS, G. J. H. M
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Biological and medical sciences; Catheterization, Central Venous; General aspects; Humans; Infant, Newborn; Infant, Premature; Infusions, Intravenous - instrumentation; Infusions, Intravenous - methods; Intensive Care Units, Neonatal - economics; Medical sciences; Patient Care - economics; Pneumonia - complications; Pneumonia - therapy; Prospective Studies; Respiratory Distress Syndrome, Newborn - complications; Respiratory Distress Syndrome, Newborn - nursing; Respiratory Distress Syndrome, Newborn - therapy; Sepsis - complications; Sepsis - therapy
• ISSN: 0803-5253; 1651-2227
• DOI: 10.1080/08035250410026608

This study assesses the improvement in outcome for newborn infants by decreasing major complications associated with intravenous fluid therapy by using an in-line filter, and evaluates the economical impact this might have in relation to daily changing of i.v. lines. In a prospective controlled study, 88 infants were randomly assigned to receive either filtered (except for lipids, blood and blood products) or non-filtered infusions via a central catheter. Main outcome measures such as bacteraemia, phlebitis, extravasation, thrombosis, septicaemia and necrosis were all scored. The costs attributable to patients during a standard 8-day stay were also recorded. Significant reductions were found in major complications such as thrombi and clinical sepsis (control group (21), filter group (8); p < 0.05). Bacterial cultures of the filters showed a contamination rate on the upstream surface of 15/109 filters (14%). The mean costs of disposables were less in the filter group, showing a reduction from 31.17 euros to 23.79 euros. The use of this in-line filter leads to a significant decrease in major complications and substantial cost savings.