Post infusion phlebitis in peripheral venous catheters: an actualization of the art

Abstract

Different pathologies and their current management make intravenous therapy frequently used for the majority of patients admitted to hospital units and are even more critical in in tensive care units. Still, despite of the benefits, its use is not free of complications, being one of the most frequent post infusion phlebitis or chemical phlebitis, associated with a high incidence (around 15 to 80% of patients with peripheral venous access) and is mainly attributed to the irritation caused by medication administered by this route. Is responsibility of nursing staff the installation of peripheral venous catheters and its care, so it is impor tant to recognize the signs and symptoms of phlebitis for early detection and also forms of prevention and handling this once it is present. However, while there are numerous studies concerning the prevention and treatment, there are no conclusive results yet to recommend a particular measure.