Phlebitis due to the insertion of peripheral venous catheters: issues relevant to nursing care

Objective: to contribute to the reflection on the mechanisms leading to phlebitis as a complication of intravenous therapy. Methodology: this is about an update paper, which presents the epidemiology, predisposing factors, preventive measures and evaluation methods of phlebitis due to insertion of peripheral venous catheter, in order to subsidize the nursing plan. Results: the phenomenon of phlebitis is quite prevalent in hospitalized patients, related to multiple factors such as hyperosmolarity and pH of the solution infused, type of device used venous and nursing care with regard to the procedure of venipuncture and venous access. It is important for nurses to learn the tools to diagnose phlebitis, identifying signs and symptoms of inflammation, thus being able to intervene according to the degree shown, preventing the occurrence of phlebosclerosis. Conclusion: knowing the types of phlebitis and, consequently, their risk factors helps the nurse to have a better basis for decision making regarding the construction of specific protocols aimed at preventing this complication.