Risk factors for the development of phlebitis: an integrative review of literature

OBJECTIVE  To describe the scientific evidence published in literature regarding the risk factors for the development of phlebitis.

METHOD  Integrative literature review with the inclusion of 14 original articles found in the LILACS, Scielo and Pubmed bases from January 2004 to April 2015, analyzed by levels of evidence and frequency, associated factors, degree and treatment of phlebitis.

RESULTS  The frequency / incidence / minimum rate of phlebitis was 3% and the maximum was 59.1%. Most articles (57.14%) reported an association of phlebitis with risk factors, including the dwell time, puncture site and / or anatomical region, hospitalization period, number of accesses, reason for removal, sex, antibiotics, intermittent maintenance and emergency insertion.

CONCLUSIONS  The need for standardizing the quantification of this event and a weak connection between the risk factors associated with phlebitis were identified. Further studies need to be developed in order to grant a real understanding of this disease in the daily routines of a hospital.

Keywords:
Phlebitis; Catheterization; peripheral; Nursing care; Infusions; intravenous; Review