Indwelling Intravenous Polyethylene Catheters

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Abstract
To assess complications secondary to the use of indwelling intravenous polyethylene catheters, a study was conducted in which 500 catheter tips were cultured and results correlated with data obtained in each case. A catheter colonization rate of 3.8% occurred. The major factor influencing the frequency of catheter colonization is the presence of other catheter complications, such as subcutaneous infiltrations and phlebitis. The low colonization rate is attributed in part to the nature of this hospital and its patient population, and in part to the use of a team of specially trained "IV" nurses for insertion of most and maintenance care of all intravenous catheters. Frequent observation of catheters and their immediate removal at the first sign of patient distress or catheter malfunction are essential to successfully maintaining a lowered rate of colonization, infection, and septicemia.

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