Peripherally administered vasopressors in critically ill adult patients: A survey of UK healthcare professional practices, attitudes and experiences

Background: Peripherally administered vasopressor infusions are used to support critically ill patients. The Intensive Care Society recently published guidelines supporting their use. Preliminary evidence suggests variability in peripheral vasopressor infusion use. We aimed to characterise current practice in the use of peripheral vasopressor infusions in the UK National Health Service and to capture the views of healthcare professionals caring for critically ill adult patients.

Method: We conducted an online survey of healthcare professionals from December 2022 to March 2023. Our survey used Google Forms and was shared via email, X (formerly twitter), and mobile phone messaging within the UK. Health Research Authority approval was sought, and ethical approval was not required.

Results: We received 227 responses and our survey showed variation in the use of peripherally administered vasopressor infusions in critically ill patients across UK National Health Service hospitals. About 87.7% of healthcare professionals initiated peripheral vasopressor infusions in their clinical role. Peripheral vasopressor use was limited to low dose, short durations of infusions, however, there was variability. Metaraminol was the most used peripheral vasopressor (90.3%). Only 22.5% of healthcare professionals used peripherally administered noradrenaline in practice. Our respondents agreed that equipoise exists.

Conclusion: Our survey found variability in the use of peripheral vasopressors and in care delivered to critically ill patients in the UK. Our survey shows there are ongoing concerns regarding safety, dosing ranges and durations of use. Future research is required to explore the optimal role that peripheral vasopressor infusions can play in the care of critically ill patients.