Which of the following is a sign of IV infiltration?

Which of the following is a sign of IV infiltration?

• A. Decreased or stopped flow rate
• B. Rash and itching
• C. Increased heart rate
• D. Swelling, discomfort, burning, and/or tightness

Answer: (D)

When the IV infiltrates, fluid leaks into the surrounding tissue, causing the area near the IV to swell and stretch. The most telling signs are swelling at the insertion site along with discomfort, a burning sensation, and a feeling of tightness as the tissue expands from the leaked fluid. These symptoms happen because tissue is being distended and irritated by the fluid outside the vein. Rash and itching would suggest an allergic or contact reaction, not infiltration. An increased heart rate is nonspecific and could occur for many reasons, not specifically tied to IV leakage. A decreased or stopped flow rate can occur if the catheter is in a vein but isn’t as definitive for infiltration as the local signs of swelling, burning, and tightness around the site.

When the IV infiltrates, fluid leaks into the surrounding tissue, causing the area near the IV to swell and stretch. The most telling signs are swelling at the insertion site along with discomfort, a burning sensation, and a feeling of tightness as the tissue expands from the leaked fluid. These symptoms happen because tissue is being distended and irritated by the fluid outside the vein.

Rash and itching would suggest an allergic or contact reaction, not infiltration. An increased heart rate is nonspecific and could occur for many reasons, not specifically tied to IV leakage. A decreased or stopped flow rate can occur if the catheter is in a vein but isn’t as definitive for infiltration as the local signs of swelling, burning, and tightness around the site.