Factors associated with phlebitis in elderly patients with amiodarone intravenous infusion

Abstract

Objective: To verify the incidence of phlebitis and identify factors associated with the development of phlebitis due to peripheral intravenous infusion of amiodarone in elderly patients. Methods: Prospective and observational cohort study on risk factors for the development of phlebitis in patients aged over 60 years, who received peripheral intravenous infusion of amiodarone, hospitalized in 2012 in the coronary care (22 beds) and general semi-intensive units (43 beds) of a large private hospital in São Paulo, Brazil. Results: Of the total 102 elderly people, 34 (33.3%) had phlebitis. It was more frequent in women (43.6%), in the dominant punctured member (36.2%), in the forearm basilica or cephalic veins (41.2%), in caliber 20G devices (40.0%), in IV Fix® sterile dressings (39.3%), in Intima® catheters (34.3%) and when there was device repositioning (33.3%). However, these variables were not statistically associated with phlebitis. Phlebitis absence in the exclusive bolus infusion was marginally significant (p = 0.051) compared to different types of infusion. Conclusion: One-third of the studied elderly patients presented phlebitis. There was absence of phlebitis only in exclusive bolus infusions.