Università degli Studi di Modena e Reggio Emilia
Corso di laurea in infermieristica - Sede di Modena
| Thesis Title | Possible predisposing factors for the occurrence of local complications in pediatric patients with peripheral intravenous catheters - Observational st |
|---|---|
| Name | Rizzo Federica |
| Supervisor(s) | Masoni Barbara, Salvati Maria |
| Academic Year | 2013/14 |
| Thesis type | Research thesis |
Abstract
The purpose of the thesis is to search the latest scientific evidences about the complications related to the dwell time of peripheral intravenous catheters in pediatric patients and to conduct a research in the Operative Unit of Pediatrics of the University Hospital Policlinico of Modena on the timing and the factors for replacement of the device. An evaluation of the insertion site has been made according to the latest guidelines and following an experimental scale created by combining rating scales of phlebitis and infiltration-extravasation approved and validated by the Infusion Nurses Society. The study was carried out in the period between February 1st, 2014 and June 30th, 2014 and involved 116 patients in an age range between 0 and 14 years. The observation was conducted on all patients who received a peripheral intravenous device for at least 1 day of hospitalization, with particular attention to possible complications and the dwell time of the catheter.
The study results are not discordant from those set forth in the international nursing literature. The most frequent complication is infiltration, followed by displacement of the device. This and all other complications do not seem to be related to the time factor, so the routine replacement is not necessary. Factors such as female, model Introcan, size 24G and insertion into the elbow/wrist are more related to the onset of phlebitis and occlusion.
During the study, parents were educated on the observation of the catheter, collaborating with the nurse in monitoring and reporting the occurrence of any problems. Considering the education an important objective in the process of assistance to the pediatric patient, the poster containing the method Touch-Look-Compare (TLC) was adopted, that can help nurses in the process of education of parents.