Prevention Methods of Peripheral Venous Catheter Related Phlebitis

Nowadays, most of hospitalized patients are treated by using peripheral venous catheters. Phlebitis is the most common complications of this catheter that leads to additional complications for patients, increased healthcare costs and waste of time. This article aimed to evaluate prevention methods of phlebitis.

This is a review study that performed in 2016. It was conducted by searching print materials and online databases as Elsevier, Google Scholar, SID and Science Direct between 2000 and 2016.

Chemical drugs, herbal medicine and disinfectant solutions were used for prevention of phlebitis. These included intravenous Heparin, Diclofenac topical gel, Aloe Vera, and local Sesame oil. New solutions like Nanosil disinfection, Chlorhexidine Gluconate 2% compared with conventional solutions and various dressings have been investigated in the studies. Herbal medicine and disinfectant solution methods preferred for lower costs and complications and usability in most patients.

Discussion and Conclusion:

Nurses should become familiar with non-pharmacological prevention methods of phlebitis. Hereby, they can perform their duties in safety, low cost, easy and practical methods, and take an effective step to improve the quality of care for patients.