Factors associated with blood flow velocity in the upper limb of cancer patients with peripherally inserted central catheters: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Abstract Background Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC) are widely used in cancer care for long-term intravenous access, yet complications such as thrombosis remain a concern. Blood flow velocity is a key hemodynamic parameter closely associated with thrombosis risk. However, limited research has focused on the factors influencing blood flow velocity in cancer patients with PICC placement. Methods This cross-sectional study enrolled 405 cancer patients who underwent PICC insertion. Data on demographic, clinical, nutritional, and catheter-related characteristics were collected at admission. Blood flow velocity and vessel diameter were assessed using Doppler ultrasound within 48 hours after catheterization. Univariate and correlation analyses were conducted to identify potential influencing factors. Variables with P < 0.1 were entered into a stepwise multiple linear regression model to determine independent predictors of blood flow velocity. Results Univariate analysis showed significant associations between blood flow velocity and gender ( P = 0.006), hypertension ( P = 0.034), radiotherapy history ( P = 0.018), and catheterization method ( P = 0.035). Correlation analysis identified positive correlations between blood flow velocity and NRS2002 score ( P = 0.032), systolic pressure ( P = 0.034), and diastolic pressure ( P = 0.017). Multiple linear regression revealed that gender ( B = -1.349, P = 0.009), education level ( B = -0.626, P = 0.026), NRS2002 score ( B = 0.674, P = 0.034), and diastolic pressure ( B = 0.067, P = 0.034) were independent predictors of blood flow velocity. Conclusions Gender, education level, nutritional status, and blood pressure were significant determinants of blood flow velocity in PICC-inserted limbs. These findings support the need for individualized nursing strategies, including nutritional screening and hemodynamic monitoring, to prevent PICC-related complications.