The pharmacist's role in reducing infusion-related phlebitis.

The article focuses on infusion-related phlebitis (IRP), the most common complication of intravenous infusion therapy, and the critical role pharmacists play in its prevention and management across healthcare settings. IRP arises from mechanical, chemical, or infectious damage to the venous endothelium, often caused by drug properties, catheter characteristics, or contamination. Pharmacists can recommend nonpharmacological strategies such as appropriate catheter selection and placement, infusion site rotation, and use of inline filters, as well as pharmacological treatments including topical and systemic anti-inflammatory and analgesic agents to reduce IRP severity. Given the impact of IRP on patient outcomes, healthcare costs, and provider workload, pharmacists contribute valuable expertise to interprofessional teams developing policies and formularies aimed at minimizing IRP and improving vascular access health.