Investigation for Phlebitis Development by Peripheral Venous Catheter in Burn Patients

Kim, Kyung Ja; Lim, Duck Su; Lee, Jang Hyun; Kim, Hye Youn

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study is to build an evidence for adjusting the guideline of our hospital for changing peripheral intravenous catheter interval from 72 hour to 96hour through the checklist based on the Hospital nursing association intravenous infusion therapy practice in burn patients who have special characteristics comparing with other patient.
METHODS
From 9 July 2014 to 20 July 2014, 30 burn patients who need a peripheral intravenous catheter were enrolled. The catheter insertion site was observed 3 times a day and it was analyzed by the time passage. Phlebitis scale for Hallym medical center was used for the diagnosis of phlebitis. Phlebitis was reported from phlebitis scale grade 2.
RESULTS
Peripheral catheter was removed in 10 patients (34%) for phlebitis scale grade 2. Among the patients, 8 patients had edema and 2 patients had erythema. There were only 5 patients (17%) who had maintained peripheral catheter for more than 96 hours. Most of the patients were given 5% dextrose fluid. Some patients had a high osmolar (883~1058 g) nutritional therapy during early post-burn period.
CONCLUSION
In burn patient, peripheral venous catheter is usually inserted to the extremity area of which the vessel is relatively weak due to the burn wound and immobilization. And it was difficult to maintain the peripheral catheter for more than 96 hours. Because the burn patients should receive the hyperosmolar fluid and medications during the early post-burn period. Further investigation through comparing analysis should be performed for developing intravenous infusion therapy practice in burn patients