A comparison between the preventive effect of Nitroglycerin and Clobetasol on cannulation-induced phlebitis; A clinical trials study

Abstract

Aim: The primary aim of this study is to determine the effect of clobetasol ointment with nitroglycerin ointment on the prevention of superficial phlebitis caused by Angio catheter. Secondary aim is to compare the effect of mentioned ointments on prevention of phlebitis. Design: prospective randomized trial Method: the study did not receive any funding. The target sample is 144patients admitted to surgical ward, randomized to 3 groups. The intervention involves application of clobetasol and nitroglycerin ointment in the distal part of the cannula; while the usual care group did not receive any tropical ointment in cannulation site. the data collection tools included demographic information, information about intravenous treatment and phlebitis measurement scale. In the intervention groups, after venipuncture, 1.5 cm (about 2 g) of ointment was applied, and the site was dressed with sterile gauze. In three time periods of 24, 48 and 72 hours from the time of venipuncture. Results: the age group of 18 to 30 years was the most common age group. The most common site of cannulation was the back of hand.in the first 24hours after the placement of cannula, there was no significant difference between the three groups. But at 48 and 72 hours after placement, the difference between intervention and control groups was significant (P <0.0001). Conclusion: it is recommended to use clobetasol ointment and nitroglycerin ointment to prevent the occurrence of phlebitis in patients who need long-term use of Angio catheter (more than 48 hours). Trial registration: NCT04685031 registered on https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/