Influence of peripheral venous cannulation on delivery of upper limb rehabilitation in Stroke patients

Abstract

Aim
Intravenous (IV) peripheral cannulae can lead to several complications if placed in a hemiparetic limb. One significant concern is the negative effect this may have on a patient's capacity to participate in upper limb rehabilitation. The aim of this study is to examine existing practices around IV cannulation in patients with hemiparesis, evaluate the impact of peripheral cannulae on therapeutic interventions, and explore the underlying reasons for this.

Methods
A digital questionnaire was developed. All occupational therapists (OTs) and physiotherapists (PTs) who were engaged in treating stroke patients at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust (LTHT) were invited to participate.

Results
In total 23 healthcare professionals (HCPs) responded (52.2% OTs: 47.8% PTs). 19/23 (82.6%) of respondents observed a cannula in the stroke-affected limb in their sessions. 15/23 (65.2%) of respondents reported having to postpone or reschedule their patients’ therapy sessions due to the presence of an IV cannula. The primary reason for postponing sessions was dislodgement risk (11/23), followed by tissue injury and concerns of pain (7/23). 2/23 (13.3%) and 8/23 (53.3%) of therapy staff stated sessions had to be cancelled on a weekly and monthly basis respectively.

Discussion
Our findings suggest IV cannula placement on the stroke affected side can negatively interfere with therapeutic interventions and necessitate session modifications. Addressing these concerns could lead to more effective rehabilitation and better patient experience in stroke recovery.