Study Finds RyMed Technologies Product Sets National Standard In Eliminating Hospital Infections

Main Category: MRSA / Drug Resistance
Also Included In: Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses
Article Date: 14 Feb 2008 - 2:00 PDT

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The new InVision-Plus(R) Neutral(R) I.V. Connector from RyMed Technologies, Inc. dramatically reduces a type of bloodstream infection that plagues the nation's hospitals and healthcare industry.

According to the results of a 15-month study published in the Winter 2007 issue of the Journal of the Association for Vascular Access (JAVA), the combination of the InVision-Plus Neutral IV connector, two other products and outlined nursing procedures resulted in zero IV catheter-related bloodstream infections in a patient group at Sutter Roseville Medical Center (SRMC) in Roseville, California.

The national healthcare journal study notes that IV catheter-related bloodstream infections are known to produce fatalities in 12-25% of all cases.

"We knew our patented technology could revolutionize patient care and save lives," says Dana Wm. Ryan, President and CEO of RyMed. "It's with a great sense of accomplishment that we can see these results published by a leading national organization that represents improved patient safety."

Sophie A. Harnage, BSN, RN, led the Sutter Hospital nursing team that developed the protocol. Since the publication of the article, the zero infection rate has continued into its 24th month.

Starting in October 2008, Medicare will stop reimbursing hospitals for the cost of treating catheter-related bloodstream infections when acquired during a patient's stay. "Since each case costs an average of $25,000 to $45,000 to treat, there's a tremendous incentive for hospitals to reduce the infection rate, and we think the InVision-Plus Neutral System is poised to take advantage of the new ruling," states Mr. Ryan.

RyMed Technologies, Inc., a privately held company, was founded by Mr. Ryan in 1994 following over 30 years experience in medical technology. He holds over 35 patents for medical devices. The InVision-Plus Neutral has been adopted by many leading institutions, such as Duke University Medical Center, St. Louis University Hospital, Memorial Hospital System of South Florida and Florida Hospital Systems to name a few. Nashville-based Vanderbilt University is currently converting to the InVision-Plus Neutral this month.

RyMed Technologies, Inc.

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