Review: Covetrus® breakFREE™ Breakaway IV Connector: A Game-Changer in Veterinary IV Therapy
Covetrus® breakFREE™ Breakaway IV Connector: A Game-Changer in Veterinary IV Therapy
By Dr. Shannon Gregoire
As a veterinary professional, I am always on the lookout for innovative solutions that can enhance patient care and improve the efficiency. Recently, I had the opportunity to try the Covetrus breakFREE Breakaway IV Connector, and I must say, it has exceeded my expectations. Let me tell you about my favorite features and why you will love it too.
The Covetrus breakFREE Breakaway IV Connector is a revolutionary break-away medical device designed to prevent dislodgements and line breakages during intravenous therapy. It features a unique mechanism that separates when harmful force is exerted across the IV line, ensuring patient safety and minimizing medication waste. The device connects with standard ISO luer connectors, making it compatible with our existing medical equipment.
Impact on Wasted Medication and Cleanups
One of the most significant benefits I experienced with this device is the drastic reduction in wasted medication and cleanup caused by dislodgements and line breakage. Practitioners often face challenges in administering drugs accurately due to frequent dislodgements. With the Covetrus breakFREE Breakaway IV Connector you will see a decrease in medication wastage and improved patient care.
Effect on Blood Loss and IV Restarts
Blood loss due to dislodgements is always a concern with critical care cases, especially with small dogs and feline patients. Studies show that Covetrus breakFREE Breakaway IV Connector reduced IV restarts by 65%, contributing to a more efficient workflow and happier patients.1
Enhanced Efficiency and Reduced Costs
Covetrus breakFREE Breakaway IV Connector has significantly eased the workload of our veterinary technicians, allowing them to focus more on patient care rather than addressing dislodgements. This device can lead to a reduction in technician workload related to IV line management. Consequently, this will give them time back to attend to critical tasks, ultimately improving efficiency.
Real Impact on Patient Safety
Safety is always our top priority, and Covetrus breakFREE Breakaway IV Connector has truly impressed me in this aspect. The device's anti-reconnect feature has prevented potential contamination after separation, ensuring a sterile environment for our patients. Furthermore, the recessed valves have minimized the risk of bacterial contamination by up to two hours after separation, enhancing infection control protocols and patient safety.
The Covetrus breakFREE Breakaway IV Connector has proven to be a game-changer. From reducing medication wastage and blood loss to streamlining workflow and enhancing patient safety, its impact has been substantial. The real statistics from our usage validate the effectiveness of this device, making it an indispensable addition to every treatment room.
References:
1. Simpson, S. E., & Zersen, K. M. (2022). Fewer peripheral intravenous catheter complications in hospitalized dogs when force-activated separation devices are used versus not used in a randomized controlled clinical trial. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 1–6. https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.22.03.0125