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Causes of phlebitis during IV Therapy

Phlebitis, also known as infusion phlebitis, is a common complication that occurs during intravenous (IV) therapy. This condition causes swelling, pain, redness, and discomfort at the injection site, significantly impacting the treatment process and the patient’s overall health. Understanding the causes of phlebitis during IV therapy is crucial for prevention and timely management.

What is infusion-related phlebitis?

Phlebitis occurs when the blood vessel wall becomes inflamed due to mechanical, chemical, or infectious factors during IV infusion.

This condition can develop immediately, within hours, or even days after completing the infusion, referred to as post-infusion phlebitis. According to Healthline, phlebitis is one of the most common complications of intravenous therapy.

Causes of phlebitis during IV therapy

1. Inappropriate catheter or needle size

Using a catheter or needle that is too large for the vein can cause mechanical damage, leading to inflammation. According to Cleveland Clinic, this damage increases the risk of phlebitis at the injection site and results in significant discomfort for the patient.

2. Prolonged catheter placement

Keeping an IV catheter in the same location for an extended period irritates the vessel wall and increases the risk of infection. Research on Healthline highlights that regularly changing the catheter site minimizes the likelihood of developing phlebitis.

3. Irritating IV solutions

Certain IV solutions with inappropriate pH or osmolarity, such as those with high salt or glucose concentrations, can damage and irritate the vessel wall, leading to infusion-related phlebitis.

4. Improper infusion technique

Improper techniques, such as failing to maintain sterility, incorrect vein entry, or administering fluids too quickly, can increase the risk of phlebitis. According to Healthline, healthcare providers must be thoroughly trained to ensure proper techniques are applied.

5. Local infection

Failure to adhere to sterile procedures during IV administration can cause infection at the injection site, leading to inflammation and pain. Infection is a major cause of complications in IV therapy, as emphasized by Cleveland Clinic.

Is infusion-related phlebitis dangerous?

If left untreated, phlebitis can lead to severe complications such as blood clots, widespread infections, or even thrombophlebitis. According to Cleveland Clinic, these risks necessitate early medical intervention to prevent long-term health consequences.

Preventing phlebitis during IV therapy

To reduce the risk of post-infusion phlebitis, the following preventive measures are essential:

1. Choosing appropriate catheter and needle sizes

Selecting a catheter or needle size that matches the patient’s vein helps minimize mechanical trauma. This is particularly important for patients with small or fragile veins.

2. Regularly changing the catheter site

Catheters should not remain in the same location for too long. According to Healthline, changing the IV site every 48-72 hours reduces the risk of phlebitis/

3. Using suitable IV solutions

Choosing solutions with appropriate pH and osmolarity reduces irritation to the veins. Solutions like NaCl 0.9% or Ringer’s lactate are commonly recommended in most cases.

4. Adhering to sterile techniques

Maintaining proper hand hygiene, using sterile equipment, and following standard procedures during IV administration help prevent infection.

5. Monitoring patients during infusion

Closely observe the injection site for signs of phlebitis, such as redness, swelling, or pain, to allow for timely intervention.

Phlebitis during IV therapy is a preventable complication when proper techniques and medical protocols are followed. Understanding the causes of phlebitis during IV therapy and implementing preventive measures can minimize risks, enhance treatment outcomes, and ensure patient safety.

References:

  • https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24599-blown-vein
  • https://www.healthline.com/health/intravenous-medication-administration-what-to-know

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