Practical view of the topical treatment of peripheral venous catheter‐related phlebitis: A scoping review

Abstract Objective To identify and analyse topical treatments for peripheral venous catheter (PVC)‐related phlebitis. Design The methodological framework used to make this scoping review was developed by Arksey and O'Malley (2005; (International Journal of Social Research Methodology, 8, 2005 and 19)). Data sources A literature search was performed in various databases such as PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, Cochrane, Cuiden, Web of Science, WorldWideScience and Joanna Briggs. Additionally, articles from informal sources were incorporated. Review methods A search and selection were made of experimental, quasi‐experimental and pre‐experimental studies published between January 2015 and September 2020 that consider the use of topical products for the treatment of hospital in‐patients with PVC‐related phlebitis. Appraisal of the methodological quality of the study was performed independently by pairs of reviewers on the basis of the Cochrane Collaboration tool. The review was based on the guidelines in the PRISMA‐ScR statement. Results Twenty‐two articles were selected (8 randomised controlled trials (RCTs), 12 quasi‐RCTs and 2 pre‐experimental studies) which considered treatments applied to a total of 2042 adult patients. The topical treatments described were classified into physical measures and phytotherapeutic and pharmacological treatments. The physical measures are easy to apply, but their effectiveness is limited. The main limitation of the phytotherapeutic treatments is their marketing and use in eastern culture. The best performing pharmacological treatment is the application of magnesium sulphate either with or without glycerine. These products can be presented in different pharmaceutical formulas: ointment, solution and oil. Conclusions and relevance to clinical practice The evidence currently available on this issue is limited and often of dubious methodological rigour. Further studies are required on the treatment and follow‐up of intravenous therapy‐related phlebitis in different national and international contexts.