Iron Infusion Protocol: Impact of Unit Based Practice

Purpose:
The intravenous infusion of iron is a quick and effective method of reversing iron deficiency anemia. A review of literature failed to locate an evidence based guideline for intravenous iron infusions.

Significance:
Nearly one-third of all patients receiving iron infusions experience serious adverse reactions. A survey of medical-surgical nurses familiar with iron infusion, identified a significant knowledge deficit of the infusion process (25%), adverse reactions (25%) and their interventions(76%).

Strategy and Implementation:
Using the PDSA cycle, the Unit Based Practice Committee collected available information on iron infusions using benchmarking, pharmacist collaboration, and the nurse researcher. An Iron Infusion Protocol was developed, then reviewed and approved by an interdisciplinary policy committee of the institution. Staff education was provided across the facility and a follow-up evaluation was conducted. All of the nurses surveyed found the protocol valuable when implementing care during iron infusions. All of the nurses achieved 100% accuracy when asked about the infusion process, adverse reactions and reaction interventions.

Evaluation:
Six months after implementation the medical record of patient's receiving iron infusion were randomly audited identifying compliance with the protocol.

Implications for Practice:
The efforts of Unit Based Practice Committees, with their members at the point of care, can transform individual and organizational practice. Such efforts generate critical practice questions and valuable practice solutions, all contributing to improved patient outcomes.