Factors determining peripheral vein tolerance to amino acid infusions
R. Gazitua, K. Wilson, B. R. Bistrian and G. L. Blackburn
The tolerance of peripheral veins to intravenous infusions was evaluated.
Of 83 infusions studied, 67 contained amino acids. Phlebitis occurred more
commonly with the use of solutions that contained the amino acids. The
important factors in the production of phlebitis by amino acid solutions
were osmolarity, and the amount of potassium infused per day. Phlebitis was
universal when osmolarity exceeded 600 mOsm. Other factors that promoted
phlebitis were the presence of antibiotics and the size of the vein.