What happens when an IV becomes infiltrated?
An infiltrated IV (intravenous) catheter happens when the catheter goes through or comes out of your vein. The IV fluid then leaks into the surrounding tissue. This may cause pain, swelling, and skin that is cool to the touch.
What happens if IV missed vein?
If the catheter becomes dislodged or moves out of the vein, the fluid that was being infused through it could now leak into surrounding tissue. When that occurs, it is called an IV infiltration. An IV line can cause an infiltration without a nurse or doctor being negligent.
What are some potential complications of an infiltrated IV?
Complications from IV infiltration can range from mild discomfort to serious injuries:
- Skin damage such as scars, blisters, ulcers, or sores.
- Serious infections.
- Permanent nerve damage.
- Vein ruptures.
- Diminished use or amputation of the affected extremity.
What is the treatment for an infiltrated IV?
infiltration is to immediately stop the infusion and discontinue the I.V. If necessary, you may use warm compresses or even administer an antidote, hyaluronidase, which breaks down subcutaneous cellular components to promote the reabsorption of fluids and is often used in severe cases.
Is IV infiltration malpractice?
Infiltration can be caused by improper placement or dislodgement of the catheter. In some cases, patient movement can cause the catheter to slip out through the blood vessel lumen. A patient who has been injured by IV infiltration can typically file a medical malpractice claim against the at-fault party.
Can an infiltrated IV cause a blood clot?
Superficial thrombophlebitis is an inflammation of a vein just below the surface of the skin, which results from a blood clot. This condition may occur after recently using an IV line, or after trauma to the vein. Some symptoms can include pain and tenderness along the vein and hardening and feeling cord-like.
What are the recommended nursing interventions when an IV becomes infiltrated What are the recommended nursing interventions when phlebitis is noted?
If you are concerned an IV is infiltrated, follow your facility policy and as a general guideline, discontinue the site and relocate the IV. If the infiltration is severe, apply warm compresses, elevate the arm, monitor the site and be sure to inform the healthcare provider.
What does an IV infiltration look like?
Some major signs of infiltration and extravasation include: Swelling at or near the IV site. The skin will feel tight and cool to the touch.
What are the signs of IV infiltration?
– Pain, tenderness, itchiness, or burning – Redness – Swelling, puffy, or hard skin – Blistering or peeling of the skin – Lightening or darkening of the skin around the site – Decreased circulation – Cool skin – IV not working
What is an early sign of infiltration?
What is an early sign of infiltration? The signs and symptoms of infiltration include: Inflammation at or near the insertion site with swollen, taut skin with pain . Blanching and coolness of skin around IV site.
What are the signs of infiltration?
Redness around the site.
Do you put ice or heat on infiltrated IV?
Use heat for vinca alkaloids, and epipodophylotoxins. Use cold for anything that is hypertonic. For small infiltrates of hypotonic or isotonic fluids, use heat or cold based on the patient’s response to it.