Infiltration and phlebitis: Assessment, management, and documentation

Abstract

Today in health care, with the increase in the number of patients with higher acuity levels, IV therapy and intravenous (IV) therapy-related complications are also on the rise. Nurses and patients trained to self-administer IV medications or solutions must be educated to identify potential IV complications, such as infiltration and phlebitis. This article discusses in detail the predisposing factors, symptomatology, and specific nursing interventions for these two com mon IV-related complications. Key words: algorithm, blood return, infiltration, inflammation