Observation and nursing care of neonates with pleural effusion caused by PICC infusion: a clinical report of 9 cases

Abstract

We retrospectively analyzed and summarized the experience of observation and nursing care of 9 neonates with pleural effusions caused by peripherally inserted central catheter line insertion (PICC) infusion. All of the 9 neonates were with different degrees of shortness of breath, cyanosis, difficult breathing or frequent apnea. The exciting cause of pleural effusion was the shift of catheter tip of PICC which was confirmed by chest X-ray. The primary causes were the growth of height and limbs, positions, catheter maintenance and difficulties in catheter placement. The experience of nursing care included making neonates maintain natural positions during PICC infusion, closely observing patient′s condition especially for respiratory conditions, dynamically monitoring the change of position of catheter tip, timely notifying doctors of perfecting the related examinations of bedside sternum, ultrasonic and so on when patient′s condition changed, stopping the PICC infusion immediately when doubting that the changes of patient′s condition were related to PICC infusion, providing respiratory support for patients with respiratory dysfunction to improve respiratory function, assisting with thoracentesis or closed drainage of thoracic cavity when necessary to relieve the oppression. All of the 9 neonates were recovered and discharged hospital via active treatment. Key words: Infant, newborn; Pleural effusion; Nursing; Peripherally inserted central catheter