Authors

  1. Nyika, Munashe Livion BSc (Hons)
  2. Mukona, Doreen MSc, BSc
  3. Zvinavashe, Mathilda PhD, MSc

Abstract

This descriptive survey identified factors contributing to phlebitis among 46 adult inpatients using a systematic random sample. The visual infusion phlebitis score was used for assessment. All participants had phlebitis, with stage 4 being most frequent. Factors identified were gender (males-91.7%); immunosuppression (human immunodeficiency virus-63.0%; diabetes-100%; immunosuppressive drugs-100%; absolute leucocyte count <1000 [mu]L-100%); number of catheters inserted (>1-90.9%); site of catheterization (dorsum of wrist-100%); catheter dwell time (2-4 days-100%); catheter gauge (18-gauge-75%); catheter securement (unsecured/contaminated dressing-90%); regularity of catheter flushing (catheter never flushed-72.7%); and continuous infusion (94.2%).