A nurse assesses an area where an intravenous (IV)line had been recently removed.The area has redness, swelling, and warmth.What should the nurse suspect as the cause?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The redness, swelling, and warmth of the area suggest inflammation and possibly phlebitis, which are common complications of IV therapy. Infiltration and air embolus usually present with mild discomfort and can cause coolness at the site, while hemorrhage presents with bleeding and a hematoma. Embolus from the former catheter is unlikely to cause local redness, swelling, and warmth.

A Nurse Assesses an Area Where an Intravenous (IV)line Had