IV Complications Flashcards
1
Q
Name 7 Possible Complications of IVs.
A
Phlebitis Infiltration Extravasation Speed Shock Fluid Overload Allergic Reaction IV Cather Embolism
2
Q
Phlebitis
A
Inflammation of the vein wall
3
Q
Phlebitis S/S
A
Redness
Swelling
Heat
Pain
4
Q
Phlebitis Interventions
A
- Discontinue infusion
- Apply warm moist compress
- Insert a new catheter at a different site, ideally the other arm, using a larger vein or smaller catheter.
- Document your findings and interventions performed.
5
Q
Phlebitis Prevention
A
- Use proper venipuncture technique.
- Double check drug dilution
- Monitor administration rates
- Inspect the I.V. site frequently.
- Change the infusion site according to your facility’s policy.
6
Q
Infiltration
A
IV fluids leak into the surrounding tissue.
Can be caused by improper placement or dislodgment of the catheter. Patient movement can cause the catheter to slip out or through the blood vessel lumen.
7
Q
Infiltration S/S
A
- Swelling, discomfort, burning, and/or tightness
- Cool skin and blanching
- Decreased or stopped flow rate
8
Q
Infiltration Interventions
A
- Stop the infusion and remove the device.
- Elevate the limb to increase patient comfort; a warm compress may be applied.
- Check the patient’s pulse and capillary refill time.
- Perform venipuncture in a different location and restart the infusion, as ordered.
- Check the site frequently.
- Document your findings and interventions performed.
9
Q
Infiltration Prevention
A
- Select an appropriate I.V. site, avoiding areas of flexion.
- Use proper venipuncture technique.
- Follow your facility policy for securing the I.V. catheter.
- Observe the I.V. site frequently.
- Advise the patient to report any swelling or tenderness at the I.V. site.
10
Q
Extravasation
A
Leaking of vesicant (tending to cause blistering) medication into the surrounding tissue. Can lead to necrosis and tissue loss.
11
Q
Extravasation S/S
A
- Blanching, burning, or discomfort at the I.V. site
- Cool skin around the I.V. site
- Swelling at or above the I.V. site
- Blistering and/or skin sloughing
12
Q
Extravasation Interventions
A
- Stop the I.V. flow and remove the I.V. line, unless the catheter should remain in place to administer the antidote.
- Estimate the amount of extravasated solution and notify the prescriber.
- Administer the appropriate antidote according to your facility’s protocol.
- Elevate the extremity.
- Perform frequent assessments of sensation, motor function, and circulation of the affected extremity.
- Record the extravasation site, your patient’s symptoms, the estimated amount of extravasated solution, and the treatment.
- Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to apply either cold or warm compresses to the affected area.
13
Q
Extravasation Prevention
A
- Avoid veins that are small and/or fragile, veins in areas of flexion, veins in extremities with preexisting edema, or veins in areas with known neurologic impairment.
- Be aware of vesicant medications
- Follow your facility policy regarding vesicant administration via a peripheral I.V.; some institutions require that vesicants are administered via a central venous access device only.
- Give vesicants last when multiple drugs are ordered.
- Strictly adhere to proper administration techniques.
14
Q
Speed Shock
A
A systemic reaction that occurs when medication is administered too quickly.
15
Q
Speed Shock S/S
A
- Lightheadedness
- Palpitations
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Rapid heart rate
