IS THERE AN EVIDENCED BASED METHOD AND/OR GUIDELINES FOR THE PERIPHERAL ADMINISTRATION OF AMIODARONE?
Study demonstrates that patients receiving peripherally infused amiodarone are at high risk for phlebitis
Posted on Aug 4, 2012
Intravenous literature: Brady Boyce, B.A. and Yee, B.H. (2012) Incidence and severity of phlebitis in patients receiving peripherally infused amiodarone. Critical Care Nurse. 32(4), p.27-34.
Abstract:
Background – Nurses noted that the rate of phlebitis was high when intravenous amiodarone was infused via a peripheral site. Hospital policy recommends a central vascular catheter, but this method is often not feasible because the drug is administered in emergent situations for short periods.
Objective – To determine the rate and severity of phlebitis in patients given peripherally infused amiodarone.
Methods – The literature, policy, and procedures for administration of amiodarone were reviewed; the pharmacy was consulted; and a data collection tool was developed. The tool was pilot tested and revised, and face validation was established. Data were collected during a 6-month period. A convenience sample was used.
Results – The study included a total of 12 patients. Each new infusion of intravenous amiodarone was considered a separate occurrence, for a total of 24 infusions. Various grades of phlebitis developed in 8 patients (67%). Phlebitis developed at 12 of the 24 infusion sites (50%).
Conclusions – Patients receiving peripherally infused amiodarone are at high risk for phlebitis. This complication may lead to infection, additional medical intervention, delay in treatment, and prolonged hospitalization.
IS THERE AN EVIDENCED BASED METHOD AND/OR GUIDELINES FOR THE PERIPHERAL ADMINISTRATION OF AMIODARONE?
The article you cite is considered evidence, along with the drug monograph from books such as Intravenous Medications and the manufacturer's package insert. I am not aware of any "evidence-based methods" other than what is revealed in this literature or any other published research. I am unclear about what you are actually seeking. Are you trying to find literature supporting the safe infusion of this drug through peripheral veins or trying to prove the necessity for a CVAD for its infusion? The Infusion Nursing Standards of Practice are not written with information for each drug. This document provides the parameters for use (pH, osmolarity, vesicants, etc.) so that each situation can be evaluated for each patient. Lynn
Lynn Hadaway, M.Ed., RN, CRNI
Lynn Hadaway Associates, Inc.
PO Box 10
Milner, GA 30257
Website http://www.hadawayassociates.com
Office Phone 770-358-7861