Comparaing the effect of Nitroglycerin and Clobetazol Ointments on Prevention of Superficial Intravenous Catheter Induced Phlebitis

Background: Although intravenous injection is nowadays one of the common invasive procedures in medical care, but like any other procedure, it has a lot of side effects. Phlebitis is the most common complication and one of the therapeutic aims is to prevent it. Aim: The aim of this study was to compair the effect of Clobetasol with Nitroglycerin ointment on the prevention of superficial IV Catheter induced phlebitis. Methods: This clinical trial study was conducted on 144 patients admitted in men surgery ward in Arak Valiasr hospital in 1392. Patients were randomly allocated into three groups: Group A (Clobetasol), Group B (NTG) and Group C (Control). Severity of phlebitis was measured using the standard visual rating scale. In intervention groups, after venipuncture, ointment were administered on the distal portion of IVcatheter and the area was dressed. The venipuncture area was assessed 24, 48 and 72 (hrs) after venipuncture. Data were analyzed by chi-square, Fisher's exact and Kruskal-Wallis statistical tests and using spss19. Results: There was no significant difference among three groups in terms of severity of catheter induced phlebitis in the first and second measurements. In the third measurement there was a significant difference among intervention and control groups (P < 0/007) and the severity of catheter induced phlebitis was reduced more in NTG group comparing Clobetasol group. Conclusion: The use of Nitroglycerin in prevention of superficial, IVcatheter induced phlebitis is more effective than Clobetasol. It is suggested that Nitroglycerin can be administered to prevent phlebitis in patients who need to have IVcatheter for a long time (over 48 hours).