A nurse assessing the IV site of a client observes swelling and pallor around the site, and notes a significant decrease in the flow rate. The client complains of coldness around the infusion site. What IV complication does this describe?

Question

A) Infiltration
B) Sepsis
C) Thrombus
D) Speed shock

Answer 1

Ans: A
Infiltration is the escape of fluid into the subcutaneous tissue due to a dislodged needle that has penetrated a vessel wall. Signs and symptoms include swelling, pallor, coldness, or pain around the infusion site, and significant decrease in the flow rate. The signs of sepsis include red and tender insertion site, fever, malaise, and other vital sign changes. The symptoms of thrombus are local, acute tenderness; redness, warmth, and slight edema of the vein above the insertion site. The signs of speed shock are pounding headache, fainting, rapid pulse rate, apprehension, chills, back pains, and dyspnea.