Tools and resources

Adoption support resource – insights from the NHS

1 Introduction

1 Introduction

This resource has been developed to provide practical information and advice on NICE medical technologies guidance on SecurAcath for securing percutaneous catheters.

NICE's adoption team worked with contributors who use SecurAcath in NHS organisations to gather their learning and experiences.

The information presented in this resource is intended for the sole purpose of supporting the NHS in adopting, evaluating the impact of adopting, or further researching this technology. It is complementary to the guidance and was not considered by the medical technologies advisory committee when developing its recommendations. Contributors to this resource have provided real-world insights to the adoption of this technology in line with the recommendations for peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs), and have also shared experiences of trialling it with other percutaneous catheters such as non-tunnelled central venous catheters and midline catheters.

SecurAcath is a single-use device to secure percutaneous catheters in position. See the guidance for more detail. It is designed to remain in situ while the catheter is in place, including during routine dressing changes, and does not usually need replacing unless catheter complications arise. At the time of writing, SecurAcath is available in 6 sizes (3 French to 8 French). The manufacturer has advised that larger sizes are planned.

The benefits of using SecurAcath for securing percutaneous catheters as reported by the NHS staff involved in producing this resource include:

  • reducing catheter dislodgement and migration rates

  • reducing other catheter complications such as:

    • deep vein thromboses, because better securement prevents 'pistoning' of the catheter

    • site infection, because SecurAcath allows for 360°cleaning of the site

  • releasing clinician and possible clinic time by reducing the need to replace migrated venous catheters

  • reducing equipment costs associated with replacing migrated and dislodged venous catheters

  • reducing patient anxiety associated with risk of catheter dislodgement

  • improving patient experience by minimising skin damage, particularly during dressing changes

  • reducing staff anxiety associated with risk of venous catheter dislodgement during dressing changes.

Contributors to this resource advised that to minimise risk, staff should be appropriately trained before implementation (see training) and the following considerations should be taken into account when introducing SecurAcath into clinical practice:

  • It should not be used for anyone with a nickel allergy.

  • Pain may be experienced on insertion and removal of the device and local anaesthetic may be needed, particularly until staff are fully familiar with the technique.

  • Infection rates may be increased if the device and catheter are not maintained and dressed according to protocol.

  • If a surgical 'nick' in the skin is used to aid insertion, the risk of bleeding needs to be managed with a haemostatic patch and dressing.

  • Initial adverse events may occur, such as skin indentation and anchor migration, until staff become familiar with the correct insertion technique.


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