Peripherally Inserted Intravenous Catheters in Children: One Year

Abstract

Aim: Intravascular catheters are used in intensive care units as well as the services with increased frequency in the management of children. The aim of this study is to evaluate the complications and risk factors associated with intravascular catheterization. Material and Method: Between the years 2014-2015 Augusts, in Medical Faculty of Cerrahpasa, University of Istanbul, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, 105 patients and placed 171 intravascular catheters analyzed retrospectively by the patients' medical records. Results: Average age of catheter insertion was 4,45 +/- 5,48 years, ranging between 3 days-228 months. 78 of the patients (45.6%) were female, 93 (54.4%) were male. One hundred and fifteen catheters (67.3%) were used 7 days or more, the average length of usage was 20.33 +/- 38.80. The most common underlying disease was metabolic disease (n = 43, 25.1%). Catheters were inserted most often because of the absence of a peripheral venous route (n = 77, 45%). The most common catheter types were central venous catheter (n = 110, 64.3%) and hemodialysis catheters (n = 51, 29.8%), respectively. Ninety eight femoral (57.3%), 48 jugular (28.1%) and 22 subclavian (12.9%) catheters were placed. Hundred and seven of the catheters (62.6%) were used only in intensive care unit, 30 (17.5%) in services after intensive care unit and 34 catheters (19.9%) were placed for the usage in services. Catheter related infections were observed in 13 patients (7.6%). Noninfectious complications were observed in 6 cases (3.5%) during or after insertion. Ninety five catheters (55.6%) withdrew due to no more remaining requirement. As catheter type, size and location had no risk for catheter related infections (p> 0.05), increased time length for the usage of catheters showed a significant increase in infection incidence (p < 0.05). The frequency of infection of catheters followed in services was significantly higher (p < 0.05). Discussion: The insertion and care of catheters by skilled persons reduce the complication rates.