Documentation

DOCUMENTATION AND REPORTING OF EXTRAVASATION

It is important that a complete history of an extravasation event is documented, with diagrams and photographs, in the patient's notes. Observation and documentation of the injury should be on a daily basis for the first few days, extended then to weekly observation on a planned follow-up. In an attempt to collate and analyse data on extravasation events in a large number of patients, a 'Green Card' scheme for reporting extravasation incidences, their treatment and outcome, is being co-ordinated through the St Chad's Unit, City Hospital, Dudley Road, Birmingham, UK.

Aims and objectives of the Green Card scheme

To obtain accurate statistics on the number of incidents categorised by extravasating drug and type of treatment.
To collect data on treatment methods and antidotes being used for extravasation incidents.
To obtain accurate information on the outcome of incidents.
To feed back information on treatments and their effectiveness.

2. What do Green Cards ask for ?

Drug(s) involved.
Circumstances of detection.
Extent of the problem.
Drugs used in the treatment.
Procedure for treatment.
Type of cannulation.
Location and extent of the extravasation.

The Green Cards are intended to be user-friendly. The information is strictly confidential and the reporting centre and patient remain anonymous.

The report cards are available from hospital pharmacy departments or oncology units in the UK or can be obtained direct from the Extravasation Report Co-ordinator, c/o St Chad's Unit, City Hospital, Dudley Road, Birmingham, B18 7QH, UK.

It is also possible to fill in and send an electronic version of the green card by clicking here - Green Card On-line

This page last updated 30/6/2007