Peripheral intravenous cannulation: reducing pain and local complications.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Practice
• Patient Care
• Clinical Procedures

Background:

• Peripheral intravenous cannulas/catheters (PIVCs) are integral to nursing care.
• Historically a post-registration skill, PIVC insertion is now integrated into pre-registration nursing education.
• Despite being common, PIVC insertion carries risks and potential patient pain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline factors contributing to pain during PIVC insertion in adult patients.
• To recommend wider consideration of local anesthetics for PIVC insertion.
• To discuss the identification, prevention, and management of painful complications post-PIVC insertion.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on PIVC insertion pain factors.
• Analysis of risks and complications associated with PIVC.
• Discussion of pain management strategies, including local anesthetics.

Main Results:

• Identified various factors causing pain during PIVC insertion.
• Highlighted the potential benefits of local anesthetics in reducing procedural pain.
• Provided guidance on managing common painful complications after PIVC placement.

Conclusions:

• Wider adoption of local anesthetics during PIVC insertion is recommended.
• Effective management of PIVC-related pain requires understanding causative factors and post-insertion complications.
• Integrating pain management strategies enhances patient comfort and care quality.