Infection risks associated with needleless intravenous access devices

Needleless intravenous (i.v.) access devices were initially introduced into clinical practice to reduce the rate of i.v. catheter-related needlestick injuries. Their efficacy for this purpose has been confirmed in subsequent reports. However, since their introduction approximately 15 years ago there have been conflicting reports about the risk of i.v. catheter-related bloodstream infection. This article reviews the risk of catheter-related bloodstream infection associated with needleless i.v. access devices and outlines the types of needleless i.v. access devices available.