The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine(FAHZU) hosted a significant international symposium focused on "Vascular Access Decision Making and CLABSI Prevention" on August 21, 2024. The event featured Kathy Kokotis, a leading expert in intravenous therapy from the United States, and aimed to advance the field of intravenous nursing and improve medical service quality.

The symposium began with a warm welcome from XU Xiaowei, Deputy Director of FAHZU's Nursing Department. XU praised Kathy Kokotis and highlighted the crucial role of intravenous nursing in patient safety and care quality. WANG Huafen, Assistant to President and Director of the Nursing Department, emphasized the importance of venous catheters as vital components of patient treatment and discussed the need for optimal catheter selection and infection prevention to enhance outcomes and reduce complications.

Kathy Kokotis, a Vascular Access Consultant for the Infusion Nurses Society (INS), delivered an insightful keynote address. She shared her extensive knowledge on the anatomy and physiology of peripheral central veins, the latest advancements in infusion therapy, and the criteria for selecting both patients and equipment. Kokotis also discussed the economic aspects of catheter selection and compared best practices across different scenarios based on INS and ERPIUP (European Project on Reduction of Infection Related to Intravascular Catheter Use) guidelines. Her presentation included practical advice on catheter selection, infection prevention, and the use of digital tools in medication management, alongside case studies to encourage further research and innovation in nursing practice.

During an interactive session, participants had the opportunity to engage with Prof. Kokotis through a Q&A, addressing common challenges in intravenous nursing. WANG also discussed the state of Advanced Practice Nursing (APN) in China with Kokotis, exploring potential development paths for APN in the local context. This exchange deepened understanding and sparked enthusiasm for innovation among nursing professionals.

Following the symposium, Kokotis visited the intravenous therapy clinic and ICU at FAHZU Headquarters. She observed the hospital’s expertise in intravenous and critical care nursing and discussed future collaboration opportunities. She also praised FAHZU’s capabilities and expressed interest in ongoing cooperation.

The symposium not only provided valuable international insights and knowledge but also strengthened FAHZU’s commitment to advancing intravenous nursing practices. The hospital plans to continue enhancing its nursing services by collaborating with global experts and integrating international best practices to improve patient outcomes.