WHAT IS A STERILE PHLEBITIS?
Simply stated it is an irritated vein. The inner wall of the vein was traumatized upon catheter insertion and is irritated and inflamed in response. This irritation can lead to loss of the catheter. If assessed and treated promptly, the irritation will subside and no further complications will develop. A phlebitis that develops after one week of placement can not be considered sterile/mechanical without further investigation. ASSESSMENT Observe daily the insertion site and the upper arm when the patient has a PICC line. Anticipate this potential problem and be prepared to treat to preserve this line. CHARACTERISTICS Symptoms must have occurred within first week of PICC placement. Redness in upper arm. Redness follows vein path. Tenderness from insertion along vein path, especially upon palpation. Swelling which looks like infiltration will develop as the inflammation progresses. If progressed, may appear like cellulitis. Patient may complain of pain or tightness in upper arm. No draina
