The nurse is caring for a very low–birth-weight (VLBW) newborn with a peripheral intravenous infusion. Which statement describes nursing considerations regarding infiltration?

Question

a. Infiltration occurs infrequently because VLBW newborns are inactive.
b. Continuous infusion pumps stop automatically when infiltration occurs.
c. Hypertonic solutions can cause severe tissue damage if infiltration occurs.
d. Infusion site should be checked for infiltration at least once per 8-hour shift.

Answer 1

ANS: C
Hypertonic fluids can damage cells if the fluid leaks from the vein. Careful monitoring is required to prevent severe tissue damage. Infiltrations occur for many reasons, not only activity. The vein, catheter, and fluid used all contribute to the possibility of infiltration. The continuous infusion pump may alarm when the pressure increases, but this does not alert the nurse to all infiltrations. Infusion rates and sites should be checked hourly to prevent tissue damage from extravasations, fluid overload, and dehydration.