The Effectiveness of Clinically Indicated Replacement of Peripheral Intravenous Catheters: An Evidence Review With Implications for Clinical Practice

The current practice of replacing peripheral intravenous catheters every 72-96 hr does not decrease the incidence of phlebitis or infection when compared to replacing catheters when clinically indicated in the adult population. By translating this research into current practice, healthcare costs and nursing care time will decrease, and unnecessary invasive procedures would be eliminated thereby increasing patient safety and satisfaction.