This website will close on 30 April 2024. After this date, your content will not be accessible. Please contact info@healthinnovationnwc.nhs.uk for more information.

Under evaluation with potential for adoption
Share innovation

WireSafe: Preventing Guidewire Retention

By Maryanne Mariyaselvam, KLIPSuk Added 6th Feb, 2017 Updated 23rd Jul, 2019

About

TIER 2 APPROVED

The Venner WireSafeTM pack prevents accidental guidewire retention and allows the safe disposal of sharps and wire during central venous line insertion.

Retained guidewires are the second highest retained object in the NHS resulting in patient harm and increased hospital costs. Despite ongoing training and improved safety procedures, reported incidents of guidewire retention has risen: three cases in 2004, to 20 in 2014 and occur once /twice a month.

Launched in 2016, WireSafeTM contains all the equipment needed to complete the procedure from the point where the guidewire should have been removed (stitch, stitch holder, dressing, scissors etc). The guidewire is required to open the WireSafeTM, therefore the clinician cannot complete the procedure without first removing the guidewire from the patient. 

Currently used in three hospitals with the aim of a nationwide roll-out across the NHS, WireSafeTM has been selected for support by the NHS Innovation Accelerator and won 1st prize at the Royal College of Anaesthetists Safety Meeting 2016.

Benefits:

  • Saves lives
  • Reduced NHS costs
  • 99.9% effective
  • Simple to use
  • Prevents guidewire retention
  • Facilitates CVC insertion
  • Safe disposal of sharps and wires
  • Improved central line procedures for patients/staff

 

Related Innovations