From Practice Gaps to Purposeful Change: FirstHealth’s Journey to Better Peripheral IV Care

This session presents the transformational journey of FirstHealth of the Carolinas as they addressed long-standing practice gaps in peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) care through the implementation of the Peripheral Advantage® Program. Led by nursing leadership and grounded in principles of high-reliability healthcare, the initiative included standardized training, competency development, and product optimization. Attendees will learn how FirstHealth identified barriers to safe and effective vascular access—including inadequate education, lack of standardized metrics, and inconsistent practices—and how these were addressed through a multidisciplinary, evidence-based approach. The presentation will outline key implementation strategies, stakeholder engagement, and lessons learned in creating sustainable change in vascular access practice.