I haven't seen anyone else mention this for the mom with phlebitis.  Warm
moist heat (dip a wash cloth in warm water ring it out, apply to arm and cover
with saran wrap or aluminum foil and then wrap in a towel for insulation) 4x a
day for about 15 minutes often decreases pain from phlebitis and speeds
resolution.

Another home remedy would be to soak the hand/arm in a warm epson salt
solution 4X day.  Just follow the directions on the box.  You can get this at
most large grocery stores/pharmacies.

Cindy Neary RN