Evaluation of Proximal Massage and Palm-to-Fist Tapping on Reducing the Risk of Phlebitis

Phlebitis is a clinical condition that develops as a complication of peripheral venous catheter use. Peripheral venous catheterization is a common clinical procedure performed in hospitalized patients, as it provides vascular access for the administration of medications, blood products, and contrast media for diagnostic imaging studies. The pathophysiology of phlebitis involves inflammation of the vascular intima, leading to luminal narrowing and impaired blood flow. These changes are clinically manifested by local signs of inflammation, including erythema, edema, and pain, which have been objectively assessed using several validated clinical assessment scales.