Topic 4: IV Therapy

Complications of IV Therapy

• Infiltration

• Extravasation

• Hematoma

• Catheter embolus

• Phlebitis/thrombophlebitis

• Cellulitis

• Fluid overload

Findings of Infiltration

• pallor

• local swelling at site

• decreased skin temp around site

• damp dressing

infiltration treamtent

1. stop infusion & remove catheter

2. elevate extremity

3. encourage active range of motion

4. apply cold/warm compress (depending on solution infiltrated)

5. determine whether the IV is still needed with provider

infiltration prevention

carefully select site and size of catheter & secure the catheter

extravasation findings

• pain

• burning

• redness

• swelling

extravasation treatment

1. stop infusion

2. place antidote before removing catheter

3. notify provider

hematoma treament

elevate extremity & use warm compress

catheter embolus cause

a complication that occurs when a part of an intravenous (IV) catheter breaks off and travels through the bloodstream

treatment of catheter embolus

removal of catheter (surgery)

cellulitis

inflammation of the cells

T or F: IV therapy is rapid and precise

True. IV therapy is rapid and precise

how does circulatory overload occur

too large / too rapid of an infusion

___ veins on ______ hand girst

distal; nondominant

write __ & __ for IV site

date; time

what does a nurse document for an IV site

size, site, appearnace

flush IV site every _-_ hours when not in use

8-12

avoid tourniquets in ___ adults

older

where does the client hold their hand during IV therapy

below the heart

change tubing for IV therapy every __ hours

24

change fluids for IV therapy every __ hours

24

what to do with ports before using or inserting a syringe

clean (wipe with alcohol)