Smiths Medical just got approval from the FDA to introduce its ViaValve Safety I.V. Catheter in the US, a device that promises to help prevent blood exposure and needlestick injuries.
Workings of the device according to Smiths:
The ViaValve™ Safety I.V. Catheter can help reduce the risk of blood exposure by means of an integrated valve in the catheter hub. The valve provides blood control by impeding the backflow of blood from the patient’s vein upon initial venipuncture. This helps to prevent the transfer of bloodborne pathogens from patient to caregiver on soiled gloves, clothing, bedding and dressings by maintaining a clean access site. ViaValve™ Safety I.V. Catheter also helps prevent inadvertent needlesticks, which, each year, affect approximately 800,000 hospital-based healthcare workers in the U.S.
Press release: ViaValve™ Safety I.V. Catheter Receives 510(k) Clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration…