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Effect of inline filtration on postinfusion phlebitis.
Clinical Pharmacy
|January 1, 1983
Summary
Inline intravenous (IV) filters did not significantly reduce postinfusion phlebitis (PIP) or bacterial colonization in general surgical patients. Routine use of these filters is not currently warranted for preventing PIP.
Area of Science:
- Medical devices
- Infection control
- Clinical nursing
Background:
- Postinfusion phlebitis (PIP) and bacterial colonization of intravenous (IV) catheters are common complications in healthcare settings.
- Inline IV filters are designed to prevent the infusion of microorganisms, potentially reducing catheter-related complications.
- The efficacy of 0.22-micron micropore inline filters in preventing PIP and bacterial colonization requires further clinical evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effect of inline IV filters on the incidence of postinfusion phlebitis (PIP).
- To assess the impact of inline IV filters on bacterial colonization of IV catheters.
- To determine if routine use of inline filters is warranted for preventing PIP in general surgical patients.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, double-blind study involving 195 male patients undergoing elective surgery.
- Patients received IV fluids, additives, and medications either through a 0.22-micron inline filter (experimental group) or without a filter (control group).
- IV catheter sites were inspected every 12 hours for phlebitis, and catheters were cultured at the termination of therapy.
Main Results:
- The incidence of PIP was similar between the experimental (38/95) and control (39/100) groups.
- Bacterial colonization of IV catheters occurred with similar frequency in both groups.
- No significant differences were observed in factors potentially related to PIP, such as patient age, IV flow rate, or catheter size.
Conclusions:
- Inline 0.22-micron micropore filters did not significantly affect the incidence of postinfusion phlebitis or bacterial colonization of IV catheters in general surgical patients.
- The routine use of inline filters solely for the purpose of reducing PIP in this patient population is not supported by the study findings.
- While inline filters may warrant consideration for preventing microorganism infusion, their routine application for PIP prevention is unwarranted.