How often should the primary administration set be changed?

The primary administration set for intravenous therapy should be changed every 72 hours to minimize the risk of infection and ensure the integrity of the IV delivery system. This time frame is based on guidelines from various health organizations, which highlight the importance of reducing the exposure of intravenous access devices to pathogens that can accumulate over time.

By replacing the set every 72 hours, practitioners can effectively manage the balance between maintaining access for ongoing therapy and minimizing potential complications such as phlebitis or bloodstream infections. The longer the administration set is left in place without change, the higher the risk of microbial colonization and subsequent complications.

While some facilities may adopt different policies based on specific products or patient conditions, the 72-hour guideline is generally a widely accepted standard in practice.