The Annals of pharmacotherapy
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Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study Clinical Trial
Peripheral intravenous line survival and phlebitis prevention in patients receiving intravenous antibiotics: heparin/hydrocortisone versus in-line filters.
To compare the use of in-line filtration with the addition of heparin/hydrocortisone (hep/hc) to the infusate for both phlebitis prevention and intravenous (i.v.) line survival in peripheral i.v. catheters. This study was specific for a patient group receiving prolonged courses of i.v. antibiotics. Analysis of the two endpoints for conventional short i.v. catheters (short lines) versus long (30 cm) i.v. catheters (long lines) was also performed. ⋯ The effectiveness of i.v. filters in excluding the large particle load introduced by i.v. antibiotics and hence in reducing the subsequent phlebitis makes them a useful alternative to the use of hep/hc. The use of filters in this patient group may offer advantages in terms of ease of use and a possible decrease in hep/hc-related problems. Long lines offer practical advantages over short lines for patients requiring longer term i.v. access.