A comparison of MaxPlus Clear and MicroClave IV connectors version 1.
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Comparison of contamination and biofilm formation of the MaxPlus® Clear and MicroClave® needleless connectors
IRAS ID
130611
Contact name
TSJ Elliott
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust
Research summary
In this study, we will investigate different connectors which can be attached to the end of intravascular catheters. By investigating two different connectors, we may demonstrate that one of the connectors is more beneficial in reducing bacterial contamination that is associated with these catheters. If we can demonstrate this it may be beneficial for patients in the future who require an intravascular catheter as part of their clinical care.
Patients who require a CVC as part of their clinical management will be eligible for participation in the study. Patients approached will be those admitted onto the haematology ward and the bone marrow transplant unit (BMT) at the University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, U.K. The first connector which is currently being used in those clinical areas will be studied for a period of three months. Following this, staff will be trained in the use of the second connector and it will be implemented and studied for three months. All patients will have the connector which is being used on the unit during the time of the patient’s stay and will receive it whether they participate in the study or not. The connectors will be routinely replaced as per Trust and manufacturers guidelines. If a patient decides to participate in the study we will collect these connectors after clinical use and test them for the presence of bacteria. Some clinical information will be recorded and will only be used for the purpose of this study.REC name
East Midlands - Leicester Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
13/EM/0247
Date of REC Opinion
2 Aug 2013
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion