Symptomatic Management of phlebitis on peripheral venous catheters: A national survey of nursing practice.

Abstract

Background: There are no international guidelines for the symptomatic management of phlebitis on peripheral venous catheters. Nurses therefore propose heterogeneous and low evidence-based management strategies to treat this complication. To explore the various management approaches for phlebitis on peripheral venous catheters proposed by registered nurses in France. Methods: Registered nurses and nurse executive practicing in both public and private sectors in France were invited to respond to a survey on the management of phlebitis on peripheral catheters. This survey was developed by nurses, nurse executive, and a physician. The survey was distributed via email through the National Order of Nurses from March 31, 2023, to April 30, 2023. No follow-up was conducted. A descriptive analysis of the survey results was then performed. Results: 3,038 healthcare providers practicing in 4 French regions responded to the survey. Phlebitis on peripheral venous catheters is most frequently encountered in medical wards. Respondents to the survey used heterogeneous strategies for the symptomatic treatment of phlebitis on peripheral venous catheters. 70° Alcohol dressings was the most common strategy reported (85.75% of respondents), applied for 92.40% of respondents without a medical prescription. The duration of treatment and its daily frequency of use were also highly variable. Conclusion: Nursing practices for the symptomatic treatment of this complication are highly heterogeneous in France, often conducted without medical prescription, although the use of 70° alcohol dressing is considered as a medication in France, which could be debated.