Intensive Care Medicine (ICM) Practice Exam

What is a preferred treatment for managing phlebitis?

1. Heat application

2. Anti-inflammatory medication

3. Immediate catheter removal

4. Injection of steroids

The correct answer is: Immediate catheter removal

In the management of phlebitis, immediate catheter removal is crucial as it addresses the underlying cause of the inflammation. Phlebitis is often a result of IV catheter irritation, which can lead to complications if the catheter remains in place. By removing the catheter, you reduce ongoing irritation and prevent the potential for further complications such as thrombosis or infection. While other treatments like heat application and anti-inflammatory medications may provide some symptomatic relief, they do not address the necessary intervention of removing the offending source—namely, the catheter. Injection of steroids is generally not a standard approach for managing phlebitis in this context, as it would not resolve the underlying issue of catheter-induced irritation. Therefore, immediate catheter removal is considered the most effective and appropriate treatment in the management of phlebitis.