ABSTRACT
The incidence rate and risk factors of infusion-related phlebitis was studied in 1993. Thirty-five hospitals were enrolled. Data were collected from 6,256 infusion sites. Male and female patients were almost equal. Forearms were the commonest site of infusion, followed by hand and arm respectively. In 34.1 per cent the infusion was interrupted by complications of which 6.2 per cent was phlebitis. It was mild in most cases. Increased incidence rates of infusion related phlebitis were associated with: the use of plastic cannulas, dextrose containing solutions, administration at the sites other than hand and concomitant administration of antimicrobials. The incidence rate of phlebitis rose sharply after 24 hours of infusion. It is concluded that in addition to proper insertion and good nursing care, the avoidance of the above risk factors will lead to a lower incidence of infusion-associated phlebitis.
Subject(s)
Adolescent , Adult , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Child , Child, Preschool , Female , Humans , Incidence , Infant , Infusions, Intravenous/adverse effects , Male , Middle Aged , Phlebitis/epidemiology , Risk Factors , Sex Distribution , Thailand/epidemiologyABSTRACT
A study on needlesticks and cuts with sharp objects was done by a set of questionnaires in Siriraj Hospital in March 1992. The response rate of 3,600 sets of questionnaires was 80.8%. The recalled incidence rate of injuries in the previous 6 months was 51.5%. Needlesticks were the commonest accident followed by cuts by broken glass and medical equipment respectively. Bore needles were the most important cause of injury. Recapping and improper disposal of used needles were prevalent. With the same incidence rate of such injuries, it was estimated that 5.9 persons will be HIV infected annually in Thailand.
Subject(s)
Accidents, Occupational/prevention & control , Humans , Incidence , Infection Control , Needlestick Injuries/epidemiology , Personnel, Hospital , Thailand , Wounds and Injuries/epidemiologyABSTRACT
The costs for disposable and re-usable syringes and needles were compared in Siriraj Hospital, in July 1988. Data were collected from all wards regarding number of items used or replaced. Labour costs for recycling re-usable items were estimated by close observation. The costs for disposable and re-usable syringes and needles were 498,039.50, 193,874.45, 69,410.00 and 27,366.95 baht respectively. It can be concluded that re-usable items cost only 36 per cent of disposable ones. It is evident that re-usable syringes and needles should be appropriate for hospitals in Thailand at present.