Objective:

To identify the factors associated with the occurrence of adverse events by a peripherally inserted central catheter in newborns.

Methods

A quantitative, cross-sectional study carried out in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of a reference maternity hospital in high-risk maternal and child care in Northeast Brazil. The sample of 108 neonates was collected from February to November 2016.

Results:

The prevalence of adverse events in newborns was 53.70%, associated with the following variables: male gender (p=0.033), weight below 2500 grams (p=0.003), insertion performed after 48 hours of life (p=0.027), more than three puncture attempts (p=0.024), difficulty in inserting the catheter (p=0.040), intercurrence during catheter insertion (p=0.027), over two dressing changes (p=0.009), and non-central position of the device (p=0.042).

Conclusion:

The results indicate the need for strategies to prevent adverse events, with emphasis on continuing education and on the improvement of skills regarding the use of this device.

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