ivWatch LLC, a Hampton, VA firm, is releasing its eponymous device for the detection of leaks into tissue around the IV placement site. The system uses an infrared sensor, that’s stuck to the skin next to the IV access site, to detect any infiltration or extravasation of fluids outside the vein. It works with IV sites on both the forearm or back of the hand and is able to consistently spot leakage of 4 cc or more, while having had demonstrated detection down to even 1 cc. It’s nearly fully automatic, raising alarms and calling on nurses to check the IVs once leaks have been detected.
While the system does help in preventing leakage, it is not meant to replace procedures already established at a given clinic. As we noted before, thanks to a reduction in adverse events, as well as the use of PICC lines, ivWatch may just pay for itself by improving patient care and boosting nursing productivity. Moreover, IV medication waste should be reduced thanks to a lower need for redoing IV placements.
The company received FDA clearance for the technology almost exactly a year ago and it’s finally ready to distribute the product for in-clinic use.
Here’s a video showing off the ivWatch:
Product page: ivWatch Model 400…
Flashback: ivWatch Monitors IV Placement Sites for Leakage Outside Veins…
Source: ivWatch