Complications of IV Therapy with Nursing Interventions – Flashcards

IV solution infused too rapidly or in too great an amount

ECV EXCESS-crackles in lungs, SOB, dependent edema, hyponatremia,hypernatermia (confusion, seizures) hyperkalemia- muscle weakness, cardiac dysrhythmias

if sx appear, reduce IV flow rate and notify HCP ECV excess, raise head of bead;administer oxygen and diuretics if ordered monitor vitals and lab reports of serum levels

IV fluid entering subcutaneous tissue around venipuncture site

Skin around catheter is taut, blanched, cool to touch, edematous, may be painful; infusion may slow or stop

Stop infusion Discontinue IV if no vesicant drug If vesicant drug, disconnect IV tubing and aspirate drug from catheter Elevate extremity Contact HCP if solution contained KCL, a vasoconstrictor or other potential vesicant Apply warm, moist or cold compress according to procedure for type of solution infiltrated Start new IV in other extremity

Inflammation of inner layer of a vein

Redness, tenderness, pain, warmth along course of vein starting act access site; possible red streak and or palpable cord along vein

Stop infusion and discontinue IV line Start new IV line in other extremity or proximal to previous insertion site if continued IV therapy is necessary Apply warm, moist compress or contact IV therapy team or HCP if area needs additional treatment

Infection at catheter-skin entry point during infusion or after removal of IV catheter

redness, heat, swelling at catheter-skin entry point; possible purulent drainage

culture any drainage (if ordered) Clean skin with alcohol; remove catheter and save for culture; apply sterile dressing notify HCP start new IV in other extremity Initiate appropriate wound care if needed

Oozing or slow, continuous seepage of blood from venipuncture site

Fresh blood at venipuncture site, sometimes pooling under extremity

Assess IV system is intact If catheter is within vein, apply pressure dressing over site or change dressing Start new IV line in other extremity or proximal to previous insertion site if VAD is dislodged. IV is disconnected, or bleeding from site does not stop