IV Therapy Complications Overview

What is a characteristic sign of infiltration during IV therapy?

Which nursing intervention should be prioritized for both infiltration and extravasation?

What type of compress is typically used to promote vasodilation for infiltrated fluids?

Which complication occurs specifically when a vesicant drug leaks into surrounding tissue?

What condition involves inflammation of the inner lining of a vein?

What is a common symptom of catheter-related irritation?

What is the recommended intervention for a catheter embolism?

Which of the following describes symptoms of circulatory overload?

What is a sign of infection at the catheter insertion site?

What should be done if there’s bleeding at the venipuncture site?

Which nursing intervention is appropriate for fluid overload?

In case of IV catheter removal, which step is necessary to identify the cause if it was sheared?

Which of the following indicates that IV flow may need to be stopped?

IV Therapy Complications

Infiltration: IV fluids leak into surrounding tissue. Symptoms include swelling, pallor, coolness, tightness of skin, damp dressing, and a slow or stopped IV flow rate.

Extravasation

Extravasation: A vesicant drug leaks out of the vein, damaging surrounding tissue.
Nursing Interventions:
- Discontinue the fluid infusion
- Discontinue the IV catheter
- Elevate the affected extremity
- Apply warm, moist compresses or cold compresses (depending on facility policy or medication)

Phlebitis/Thrombophlebitis

Phlebitis/Thrombophlebitis: Inflammation of the vein's inner lining. This is caused by mechanical (catheter movement) or chemical (IV fluids/electrolytes) irritation.
Signs/Symptoms: Redness, warmth, swelling at or near the site of the insertion and pain, tingling or throbbing along the vein path. A slow or stopped IV flow rate.

Systemic Complications

Catheter embolism: A complication that can occur during catheter removal if the catheter is “sheared” (broken) during removal.
Circulatory (fluid) overload: Too much IV fluid infused too quickly, resulting in distended neck veins, elevated blood pressure, rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, and/or coughing.
Infection (cellulitis): Infection at the IV insertion site. Symptoms include erythema (redness), warmth, swelling, or possible purulent drainage. Systemic complications like fever, chills, and malaise can also occur.

Bleeding at Venipuncture Site

Bleeding issues: Oozing or continuous seepage of blood from the insertion site. Assess IV system connections, discontinue the IV and apply pressure to stop bleeding.
Hematoma: A bruise (ecchymosis) occurring during or after IV insertion.
Nursing interventions:
- Do not keep tourniquet on too long
- Remove tourniquet before starting IV infusion
- Apply pressure over insertion site with sterile gauze pad until bleeding stops (longer if patient is on anticoagulants)

This quiz covers the complications associated with IV therapy, including infiltration, extravasation, and phlebitis. You'll learn about the signs, symptoms, and nursing interventions necessary for managing these complications effectively. Test your knowledge and preparedness for real-world nursing scenarios.