Prevention of medical adhesive-related skin injury (MARSI) in IV therapy

The loss of skin integrity associated with MARSI in intravenous (IV) therapy not only creates an environment that is conducive to localised infection around the catheter exit site, but also provides a route for pathogens to contaminate the inner and outer surfaces of the catheter lumen, with the risk of bloodstream infection. Despite the associated high morbidity, mortality and health economic burden, the relationship between MARSI and catheter-related bloodstream infection is underestimated. As MARSI is largely preventable, it is vital that prevention strategies are put in place. These two presentations will explore the causes of MARSI and outline simple steps for implementing a prevention strategy for use during vascular access.