The necessity of routinely replacing peripheral intravenous catheters in hospitalized children. A review of the literature.

Insertion of a peripheral intravenous catheter can be a traumatic experience for a child. Current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines for adults recommend peripheral intravenous catheter replacement every 48 to 72 hours, but there are no pediatric recommendations. The rationale for changing catheters every 48 to 72 hours is to reduce the risk of complications such as phlebitis and infection. This article reviews literature on the use of peripheral intravenous catheters in the pediatric setting and will make a recommendation on replacement intervals.