A 1-Year Study on Association between Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter Tip Position and Complications in...

Area of Science:

• Neonatal Medicine
• Pediatric Critical Care
• Vascular Access Devices

Background:

• Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are essential for preterm and low birth weight neonates.
• PICC use is associated with significant morbidity and mortality due to complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) tip position and the occurrence of complications in neonates.

Main Methods:

• A 1-year longitudinal observational study included 100 neonates.
• Radiographs were used to classify PICC tip position as central or noncentral.
• Complications were recorded and compared between groups using Fisher's exact test.

Main Results:

• 84% of neonates had a central PICC tip position; 29% experienced complications.
• Noninfectious complications (26%) were more common than infectious (3%), with phlebitis (11%) being most frequent.
• Noncentral tip position was significantly associated with higher complication rates, particularly occlusion (P=0.008).

Conclusions:

• A high incidence of PICC-related complications exists in neonates.
• Phlebitis is the most common complication.
• Noncentral PICC tip positioning is a key factor influencing complication rates.