Comparing the Effects of Pulsatile and Continuous Flushing on Time and Type of Peripheral Intravenous Catheters Patency: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Abstract

Introduction: Peripheral intravenous catheters (PICs) patency techniques such as flushing are being developed. According to some studies, flushing can be used continuously or in pulsatile forms. This study aimed to compare the effects of pulsatile flushing (PF) and continuous flushing (CF) on time and type of PICs patency. Methods: In this double-blind randomized clinical trial, 71 patients were randomly assigned into two groups of PF (n=35) and CF (n=36). The PF protocol was performed as successive injections of 1 mL normal saline (N/S) per second (sec) with a delay of less than 1 sec until the completion of 5 mL of solution. However, CF protocol was performed by injecting 5 mL N/S within 5 sec without any delay before and after each medicine administration. Data related to the time and type of PICs patency were collected using a patency checklist every 12 hours (h) up to 96 h. The statistical analysis was done by R statistical software (Version 3.5.1). Results: The results showed that the number of PICs remaining open was not significantly different between PF and CF groups during 96 h. The highest number of PICs excluded from the study was related to the time of 96 h as a result of partial patency in the two groups. Conclusion: There was no difference between CF and PF regarding the time and type of PICs patency. Thus, both techniques can be used to maintain the catheter patency.

The effect of transilluminator device on successful peripheral venous catheter placement in children: A systematic review and meta-analysis

“…Annually, more than one billion PVCs are placed for patients. [1][2][3] Meanwhile, PVCP is difficult for children due to the small diameter of their veins in adipose tissue. 4 In addition, this procedure is time-consuming and causes pain and anxiety in children.…”

Pencegahan Phlebitis dengan Tindakan Flushing: Literature Review

“…Dalam melakukan flushing spuit yang digunakan menurut pedoman adalah spuit 10cc, agar tekanannya rendah sehingga mencegah terjadinya tekanan yang lebih besar pada pembuluh darah dan menyebabkan kerusakan. 11 Pada pelaksanaan flushing ada beberapa teknik yang dilakukan yaitu pulsatile flushing (PF) dan continuous flushing(CF) 15.…”