International Journal of Clinical Research

Objective To investigate the efficacy of umbilical vein catheterization (UVC) followed by peripherally inserted central venous catheterization (PICC) in intravenous therapy for critically ill preterm infants, providing theoretical and practical evidence to enhance clinical research and safeguard patients' health. Methods A total of 56 critically ill preterm infants admitted between January and July 2025 were randomly assigned using systematic sampling into a control group (n=28) and an experimental group (n=28). The control group received standard PICC treatment, while the experimental group underwent UVC-sequential PICC therapy. Comprehensive evaluations compared both groups in terms of single-puncture success rate, hospital infection rates, adverse event incidence, and clinical outcomes. Results When treating equivalent patient needs, different intervention strategies demonstrated distinct effects. The experimental group showed statistically significant advantages over the control group in all metrics (p<0.05), warranting further exploration. Conclusion The sequential UVC-PICC technique significantly improves puncture success rates, reduces complications from repeated procedures, and enhances treatment efficiency while lowering risks. This innovative approach demonstrates positive therapeutic outcomes and warrants broader clinical adoption.

Umbilical vein catheterization; Sequential PICC; Critically ill preterm infants; Intravenous therapy; Application