Prevalence of Phlebitis in a Clinical Inpatient Unit of a High-complexity Brazilian University Hospital

Abstract

Objective: Analyze the prevalence of phlebitis and the factors related to its appearance in a clinical unit of a high complexity University Hospital. Material and methods: The research was exploratory and descriptive, where 144 patients were sampled. The data was collected and associated regarding the presence of phlebitis, catheter insertion site, time of puncture and classification of grade of phlebitis. Results: the prevalence of phlebitis was 23.6%; being grade 2 phlebitis more predominant (64.7%), the location of higher frequency the cubital fossa (36.8%) and forearm (25.4%), which did not differ with each other and presented higher incidence than the back of the hand (10,6%). In relation to puncture time, phlebitis was more prevalent in patients with 4 days (42.8%) and 3 days (40.6%). The prevalence of phlebitis grew 10.57% every day after the puncture. The grade of phlebitis was not associated with the puncture location, but was associated with the time of puncture. Conclusions: the prevalence of phlebitis was high for a high complexity hospital; being that it was possible to relate the general prevalence of phlebitis with the insertion site and catheter insertion time. The daily evaluation of access is essential based on the high prevalence of phlebitis over time after the puncture. DESCRIPTORS Phlebitis.Epidemiology.Catheters.Hospitalization.Nursing.Patient Safety.