Impact of Indwelling Time of Peripheral Intravascular Catheter on the Incidence of Phlebitis

Abstract

Insertion of a peripheral intravenous catheter is the most common procedure performed in the hospitals. Infusion-related phlebitis is the most common catheter-related complications. The CDC guidelines (2011) recommended scheduled replacement of peripheral IV catheters every 72–96 h to prevent phlebitis. The current study was taken up to assess the impact of indwelling time of peripheral intravenous catheter on the development of phlebitis. A prospective study design was adopted and 168 peripheral IV catheters inserted in Emergency department of tertiary care hospital were observed for the development of phlebitis. The phlebitis was quantified using Jackson’s Phlebitis Scale. The study reported 29.8% phlebitis rate. Mean indwell time for peripheral intravenous catheter was 85.9 + 35.9 h (Range= 24– 144 h). Phlebitis was significantly reported more among peripheral intravenous catheters which remain in situ between 72–96 h. Thus, the study recommended routine replacement of peripheral intravenous catheter after 72 h duration to minimize the risk of phlebitis.