Assessment of Peripheral Intravenous Catheter (PIVC) Knowledge and Perceptions of Phlebitis Risk Factors among Nurses in a University Hospital in Selangor

Abstract

Background: Phlebitis is a frequently occurring complication in the peripheral venous catheterization of hospitalized patients. Knowledge and perception in regard to compliance with the guidelines are required for all nurses involved in the insertion and care of peripheral intravascular catheters (PIVC). Objective: The aim of this study is to assess the knowledge of PIVC care among nurses and their perceptions of risk factors for phlebitis in a university hospital located in Selangor, Malaysia. Methods: The design used for this research is quantitative and non-experimental. It was conducted using a cross-sectional study design involving knowledge and perceptions. In conjunction with that, a convenience sampling approach and unrestricted self-selected surveys of 170 hospital nurses were conducted at a university hospital in Selangor. Results: Over 58.8% of the nurses demonstrated a very high level of knowledge, while approximately 47.1% exhibited a good perception of phlebitis risk. Notably, a statistically significant correlation was observed between knowledge level and factors such as years of clinical experience, PIVC training, and the frequency of PIVC handling (p<0.05). In terms of perception regarding phlebitis risk factors, a noteworthy relationship was found with years of clinical experience, the workplace, PIVC training, and the frequency of PIVC handling, all of which achieved statistical significance (p<0.05). Conclusion: Specific measures should be taken to improve nurses’ understanding of PIVC and their awareness of phlebitis risk factors. Nurses are entrusted with various responsibilities in the course of intravenous treatment, which encompass initiating, monitoring, maintaining, and discontinuing intravenous infusions. Therefore, nursing staff must be proficient in all facets of intravenous care, including identifying and preventing phlebitis.