Effects of low-dose heparin on failure of intravenous infusions in children.
OBJECTIVE
To determine if a dextrose-saline solution manufactured under commercial conditions and containing 1 IU per ml of heparin prolongs the use of infusion sites in children.


METHODS
Double-blind randomized trial.


METHODS
Eighty children in a medical ward.


METHODS
Failure of infusion sites from phlebitis and/or extravasation.


METHODS
Duration of use of infusion sites was calculated to the nearest hour.


METHODS
Univariate survival analysis.


RESULTS
The median time to failure when solutions contained the heparin (97 hours) was significantly increased (p < 0.0001) compared with control solutions (43 hours).


CONCLUSIONS
Use of solutions containing low-dose heparin is recommended for children who might have problems with venous access.
Wright
A
A
School of Nursing, University of Sydney, Lidcombe, NSW, Australia.
Hecker
J
J
McDonald
G
G
D002408:Catheters, Indwelling / Q000009:adverse effects; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005260:Female; D006493:Heparin / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D006801:Humans; D007262:Infusions, Intravenous; D008297:Male; D010689:Phlebitis / Q000209:etiology / Q000451:nursing; D016019:Survival Analysis; D017211:Treatment Failure
D006493:Heparin