Abstract
Introduction: Phlebitis is the most common complication of intravenous infusion therapy. Incidence of phlebitis in children receiving intravenous therapy has been reported to be as high as 71.25%. The study was done to find out the effectiveness of glycerin magnesium sulphate versus heparin benzyl nicotinate application in children with phlebitis.
 Methods: A pre-post control group design was used. A total of 43 subjects were randomly assigned into two groups [22 in experimental (glycerin magnesium sulphate application) and 21 in control (heparin benzyl nicotinate application) group] by lottery method. Data was collected using Modified Visual Infusion Phlebitis (VIP) Score.
 Results: The comparison between VIP score was based on observations made before the interventions and at 12, 24, 36 and 48 hours after the intervention. Independent t tests showed significant difference in reduction of VIP score in experimental and control group after 12 hours and 24 hours of intervention. The study demonstrated that there is no statistically significant difference in reduction of VIP score among the subjects in experimental and control group at 12 hours (p = 0.219), 24 hours (p = 0.349), 36 hours (p = 0.695) and 48 hours (p = 0.424) after the intervention. 
 Conclusion: The study concludes that both glycerin magnesium sulphate and heparin benzyl nicotinate can be used effectively among children with phlebitis. However, after 24 hours of phlebitis, an alternative intervention needs to be used.
Highlights
Phlebitis is the most common complication of intravenous infusion therapy
One of the most common complications associated with peripheral intravenous infusions is phlebitis,[2] which is a frequent problem in paediatric patients.[3,4]
Another study in similar setting stated that glycerin magnesium sulphate application and alovera gel are effective in reducing phlebitis in children.[11]
Summary
Phlebitis is the most common complication of intravenous infusion therapy. Incidence of phlebitis in children receiving intravenous therapy has been reported to be as high as 71.25%. Magnesium sulphate is hygroscopic and has been used in dehydrating boils and carbuncles. It is used for treating aches and pains.[8] Heparin prevents thrombin formation, promotes fibrinolysis and absorption of superficial micro-thrombi while benzyl nicotinate boosts local absorption of heparin by vasodilation.[9] A study in India concluded that, magnesium sulphate paste application is very effective than magnesium sulphate crystal fomentation in reducing phlebitis and other infusion related complications in children.[10] Another study in similar setting stated that glycerin magnesium sulphate application and alovera gel are effective in reducing phlebitis in children.[11] Thrombophob gel and ice pack are found to be effective in reducing intravenous infiltration in children.[12]
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