Effectiveness of Topical Glycerin Magnesium Sulfate Application Versus Cold Application on Patients with Peripheral Intravenous Catheters induced Thrombophlebitis

: Peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) are a widespread practice and considered the most common invasive procedure for hospitalized patients. Thrombophlebitis or Phlebitis is a common complication linked with the use of peripheral intravenous catheters. Nurses play an essential role in the prevention and treatment of thrombophlebitis. Aim: The study aimed to evaluate topical glycerin magnesium sulfate application versus cold application on patients with peripheral intravenous catheter-induced thrombophlebitis. Design : Quasi experimental research design had been utilized. Settings :The study was carried out in medical units at Mansoura University Hospital. Subjects : A purposive sampling technique was used. The study sample consisted of 60 adult patients, the sample was assigned to two experimental groups, 30 in each group (topical glycerin magnesium sulfate application-group I and cold application -group II). Tools of data collection : Data were collected using tool I: A structured interview questionnaire and tool II: Visual infusion phlebitis (VIP) scale. Results : It revealed that there was a highly significant difference in VIP scale score between the studied patients in topical glycerin magnesium sulphate group and cold application group after each intervention (P= 0.000). Likewise, there is a significant difference in mean score of VIP in two experimental groups after comparison baseline within 36, 48 hours after intervention (P < 0.05) while mean ±SD score of VIP in group I, was 1.93± 0.583 & 1.52±0.861 respectively and group II, was 2.26±0.583 & 1.83±0.694 respectively. Conclusion : Application of glycerin magnesium sulfate & cold application were effective in reducing severity of phlebitis. Also, the study demonstrated that using a dressing with glycerin magnesium sulfate is more effective than applying cold compresses in managing thrombophlebitis. Recommendation : It was recommended to monitor cannula site regularly, early detection of cannula-induced phlebitis. Using glycerin magnesium sulfate application and cold application to reduce severity of peripheral intravenous catheters induced thrombophlebitis in hospitalized patients.