The Vascular Access Team at Jackson Memorial Hospital is a fully dedicated and highly skilled team of nurses, who are solely responsible for the insertions and maintenance of Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters (PICC) and Midlines. This model results in high proficiency, accuracy and ultimately the maximization of treatment benefits such as an increase in patient satisfaction, reduction in the length of hospitalization and complications.Incorporating a culture of accountability and ownership has led to this team’s success and effectiveness. The team has reduced and maintained the infection rates to less than 2 percent in reported central line blood stream infections (CRBSI). Subsequently, there has been a reduction in complications that are associated with centrally placed lines such as bleeding, higher incidence of infection and pneumothorax. Patient satisfaction has also increased by providing an alternate and more comfortable site for insertion that effectively meets their clinical needs.
In this age of HCAHPS and patient focused surveys, the Vascular Access Team provides a multifaceted approach to help Jackson Health System accomplish its mission. The team is a driver of increased patient satisfaction by providing a timely procedure, allowing earlier discharge and return to their activities of daily living.
