The Incidence of Peripheral Intravenous Catheter Phlebitis and Risk Factors among Pediatric Patients.

BACKGROUND

Phlebitis is one of the most common complications of peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) that can lead to many complications, including higher medical costs and longer hospital stays.

OBJECTIVE

To identify the incidence of phlebitis associated with PIVC and determine its risk factors among hospitalized pediatric patients.

METHODS

An observational and cross-sectional design was used. Data such as patient's demographics, medical diagnosis, place of admission, and other PIVC characteristics were recorded. In addition, observations of PIVC sites over 12-hour intervals were conducted to measure PIVC complications using the Visual Infusion Phlebitis (VIP) scale.

SAMPLE AND SETTING

Over a period of six months, a sample consisting of 307 children from five governmental hospitals that are located in north and middle Jordan were targeted. The sample consists of patients under 12 years old with PIVCs who were hospitalized in pediatric departments.

RESULTS

PIVC catheterization has been associated with several complications such as phlebitis (N = 164; 53.4%), extravasation (N = 107, 34.9%), pain (N = 37; 12.1%), leakage (N = 37; 12.1%), and obstruction (N = 26; 8.5%). The main risk factors for phlebitis were: children admitted to wards, PIVC inserted by novice nurse, catheter inserted in the lower limbs, and catheter with contaminated dressing.

CONCLUSION

This study enriches knowledge of PIVC complications and risk factors of phlebitis to help nurses avoid complications and initiate prompt treatment, leading to decrease financial burden as well as patient pain and discomfort.