PREVALENCE OF PHLEBITIS AMONG PATIENTS RECEIVING PERIPHERAL INTRAVENOUS THERAPY IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL IN INDIA

Background: Phlebitis is a common complication associated with the use of peripheral intravenous catheters. Main uses of a peripheral intravenous catheter are infusions, blood sampling, administration of parenteral medications and blood products. It is one of the commonly performed procedure in hospital. Almost all of hospital admissions lead to intravenous catheter placement. Aim:To assess the prevalence of phlebitis among patients on peripheral intravenous catheter and identify predisposing factors of phlebitis in patients. Methodology: 398adult patients in wards, with Peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) were included in the study during a period of 4 months. Catheter insertion site of these patients were observed for signs of phlebitis using Visual Infusion Phlebitis scale, until discharge or until the resite of next catheter. The data collection and analysis included patient demographic details and data related to catheter (including number of attempts during insertion, experience of staff performing the cannulation, reasons for removal etc.), as well as the data on the type of administered medications and intravenous therapy. Results:A total of 398 patients were enrolled, among which 228 were males and 170 were females. A total of 192 patients (48.24%) showed one or other early signs of phlebitis. Among these 192 patients with early signs of phlebitis, 128 patients (66.67%) had score 1 in VIP scale while 64 patients (20.47%) had score 2 and 3.Phlebitis was found to be associated with mobility status of the patients (<0.001). Conclusion:This study showed a high prevalence of phlebitis among inpatients in wards. However, most of these cases were mild Grade 1 phlebitis.Its crucial to train and upskill staffs on PIVC insertion and monitoring to ensure proper placement and assessment. Daily assessment of insertion site and need for PIVC and patient awareness on PIVC maintenance is crucial in prevention of phlebitis.