Common IV complication/s: Signs & symptoms
Infiltration Coolness of skin around site, taut skin, dependent
edema, absence of blood backflow, a pinkish blood
return, infusion rate slows but the fluid continues to
infuse.
Phlebitis Redness at site, site warm to touch, local swelling,
palpable cord along the vein, sluggish infusion rate,
increase in basal temperature of 1 degree C or more.
Thrombophlebitis Sluggish flow rate, edema in the limbs, tender and
cordlike vein, site warm to touch, visible red line above
venipunture site, diminished arterial pulses, and
mottling and cyanosis of the extremities.
Thrombosis Fever and malaise, slowed or stopped infusion rate,
inability to flush licking device.
Local infection Redness and swelling at the site; possible exudate of
purulent material; increased quantity of white blood
cells; elevated temperature.
Hematoma discoloration of the skin, site swelling and discomfort,
inability to advance the cannula all the way into the vein
during insertion, resistance to positive pressure during
the lick flushing procedure.
Septicemia Fluctuating fever, tremors, chattering teeth, profuse
cold sweat, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal
pain, tachycardia, increased respirations or
hyperventilation, altered mental status, hypotension.
Reference: http://www.netwellness.org/healthtopics/anesthesiology/ivcomplications.cfm
Treatment
Inform your healthcare professional and they will
administer appropriate care immediately. Infiltrated IVs
are not a big problem usually unless the medication
being administered is very irritant, such as certain
chemotherapy and circulatory medicines. The
intravenous infusion must be stopped, obviously, to avoid
putting any more fluid or medication into the tissues.
Another IV may need to be started elsewhere.
Treatment of phlebitis and thrombophlebitis is aimed at
relief of the symptoms including: anti-inflammatory
medicine, such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen for pain, or
local heat. If the condition worsens, especially if pain or
the area of redness increases, medical attention should
definitely be sought.
See your healthcare provider immediately. Antibiotics
may be used to control the bacterial infection.
A hematoma normally recovers over time (a few hours or
days) without treatment.
Septicemia is a serious condition that requires a hospital
stay. You may be admitted to an intensive care unit
(ICU).
Fluids and medicines are given by an IV to maintain the
blood pressure.Oxygen will be given. Antibiotics are used
to treat the infection.Plasma or other blood products may
be given to correct any clotting abnormalities.