Needleless intravenous systems: A review

Background: Needleless intravenous devices have now been implemented by man y institutions worldwide. A rationale for their use has been a reduction in the number of needlestick injuries. Objective: The aim of this review is to outline the possible benefits and d angers of needleless intravenous systems. Review: Many early reports demonstrate a reduction in needlestick injuries after the implementation of a needleless intravenous device; however, not a ll such reductions are directly attributable to the device itself. Furtherm ore, good evidence suggests that needlestick accidents prevented by needlel ess intravenous devices pose little threat to health care workers. Finally, increasing reports associate bacteremias with the use of needleless intrav enous devices. Early reports described devices used in the home care settin g; however, recent reports are from acute health care settings, including i ntensive care units. Conclusion: Ongoing critical review of the benefits, risks, and costs of ne edleless intravenous devices is required.