Effectiveness of Topical Glycerin Magnesium Sulfate Application Versus Cold Application on Patients with Peripheral Intravenous Catheters induced Thrombophlebitis

Abstract: Peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) are a widespread practice and considered the most 
common invasive procedure for hospitalized patients. Thrombophlebitis or Phlebitis is a common 
complication linked with the use of peripheral intravenous catheters. Nurses play an essential role in the 
prevention and treatment of thrombophlebitis. Aim: The study aimed to evaluate topical glycerin 
magnesium sulfate application versus cold application on patients with peripheral intravenous catheterinduced thrombophlebitis. Design: Quasi experimental research design had been utilized. Settings:The 
study was carried out in medical units at Mansoura University Hospital. Subjects: A purposive sampling 
technique was used. The study sample consisted of 60 adult patients, the sample was assigned to two 
experimental groups, 30 in each group (topical glycerin magnesium sulfate application- group I and cold 
application -group II). Tools of data collection: Data were collected using tool I: A structured interview 
questionnaire and tool II: Visual infusion phlebitis (VIP) scale. Results: It revealed that there was a 
highly significant difference in VIP scale score between the studied patients in topical glycerin 
magnesium sulphate group and cold application group after each intervention (P= 0.000). Likewise, 
there is a significant difference in mean score of VIP in two experimental groups after comparison 
baseline within 36, 48 hours after intervention (P < 0.05) while mean ±SD score of VIP in group I, was 
1.93± 0.583 & 1.52±0.861 respectively and group II, was 2.26±0.583 & 1.83±0.694 respectively.
Conclusion: Application of glycerin magnesium sulfate & cold application were effective in reducing 
severity of phlebitis. Also, the study demonstrated that using a dressing with glycerin magnesium sulfate 
is more effective than applying cold compresses in managing thrombophlebitis. Recommendation: It 
was recommended to monitor cannula site regularly, early detection of cannula-induced phlebitis. Using 
glycerin magnesium sulfate application and cold application to reduce severity of peripheral intravenous 
catheters induced thrombophlebitis in hospitalized patients