Determination of the development of phelebitis and affecting situations in patients with peripheral intravenous catheter in a public Hospital's general surgery unit

This cross sectional study was conducted to determine the development of phlebitis and affecting situations in patients inserted peripheral intravenous catheter (PIC). The research was held in İskenderun Public Hospital's General Surgery Unit between 1 February and 31 May 2016. The research data was obtained using The Patient Identification Form, Phlebitis and Treatment Identification and Knowledge Form. Visual Infusion Phlebitis Score was used for identifying and grading phlebitis. Data forms were filled by the researcher in first (first 24 hours after the initiation of the PIC), third and fifth treatment days. The sample of the research consisted of 80 volunteer patients who were treated in general surgery unit with peripheral intravenous catheter at least 24 hours, and met the sample criteria. Phlebitis rate was 43.75% overall during the research period. Most of the phlebitis developed was 2nd degree and 22.50% of the phlebitis was developed on the 3rd day. According to the Multiple Regression Analysis results, gender was the most effective factor for developing phlebitis (OR: 1.21, CI: 0.68-1.49) (p<0.05). Other variables (age, chronic illnesses, catheter size, anatomic site, antibiotic and liquid application via PIC) were not found to be effective factors for developing phlebitis (p>0.05). In conclusion, nearly half of the patients developed phlebitis. It is suggested that nurses should know the risks for phlebitis and monitor their patients closer. Key Words: Peripheral Intravenous Catheter, Phlebitis, Nursing