Which description best identifies IV infiltration?

Which description best identifies IV infiltration?

• A. Infiltration is characterized by taut, blanched, cool skin with edema and pain, and slowed or stopped infusion
• B. Redness along the vein and fever
• C. Shortness of breath and chest pain
• D. A rash around the IV site only

Answer: (A)

IV infiltration occurs when IV fluid leaks into the surrounding tissue, typically because the catheter has shifted or the vein is damaged. The best description shows skin around the site that is taut and blanched (pale), cool to touch, with edema and pain, and a slowed or stopped infusion. These signs reflect extravasation of IV fluid into tissue rather than inflammation of the vein itself. The other descriptions point to different IV complications: redness along the vein with fever suggests phlebitis or infection; shortness of breath and chest pain raise concern for air embolism or cardiopulmonary issues; and a rash around the IV site indicates a local allergic or irritant reaction rather than infiltration. Recognizing the cool, pale, swollen, painful area with a reduced infusion rate helps guide immediate actions like stopping the infusion, removing the IV, and assessing for tissue damage.

IV infiltration occurs when IV fluid leaks into the surrounding tissue, typically because the catheter has shifted or the vein is damaged. The best description shows skin around the site that is taut and blanched (pale), cool to touch, with edema and pain, and a slowed or stopped infusion. These signs reflect extravasation of IV fluid into tissue rather than inflammation of the vein itself. The other descriptions point to different IV complications: redness along the vein with fever suggests phlebitis or infection; shortness of breath and chest pain raise concern for air embolism or cardiopulmonary issues; and a rash around the IV site indicates a local allergic or irritant reaction rather than infiltration. Recognizing the cool, pale, swollen, painful area with a reduced infusion rate helps guide immediate actions like stopping the infusion, removing the IV, and assessing for tissue damage.