Extract:
“Several strategies can be employed to prevent PIVC complications. One strategy is to select the appropriate catheter size and material for each patient. The catheter size should be based on the patient’s age, vein size, and the type and duration of therapy. Using a smaller catheter (26-gauge) in neonates results in a 49% risk of complications, while using a larger catheter (22-gauge) results increases the risk to 77%. The catheter material should also be considered, as some materials have lower rates of phlebitis than others.”
Reference:Lee CC. Reducing complications and extending the lifespan of peripheral intravenous catheters in newborns-simple and feasible methods. Pediatr Neonatol. 2023 Apr 12:S1875-9572(23)00074-8. doi: 10.1016/j.pedneo.2023.04.001. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 37085426.