Types of flebitis related to intravenous therapy: an update

Abstract

Objective: to present an update on the types of phlebitis, namely: chemical phlebitis, mechanical phlebitis, bacterial or infectious phlebitis and phlebitis post-infusional aspects related to the concept, characteristics, clinical manifestations and their impact on clinical nursing practice. Method: update article on chemical, mechanical, bacterial or infectious phlebitis and post-infusion phlebitis. Results: chemical phlebitis results from the administration of drugs that damage the endothelium of the vessels; a mechanical phlebitis is related to the incorrect handling of the devices; bacterial phlebitis occurs due to incorrect aseptic techniques and post-infusional phlebitis occurs within 48 hours after venous withdrawal. Final considerations: as the main causes of involvement of phlebitis the use of hazardous materials, lack of attention in the preparation of medicines and incorrect aseptic techniques, which makes the performance of nursing professionals indispensable.