If an intravenous (IV) injection is not administered directly into a vein, it results in what's known as IV infiltration, causing a range of issues.
Consequences of IV Infiltration
When an IV injection misses the vein, the fluid or medication is delivered into the surrounding tissue. This can lead to several problems:
- Pain and Tenderness: The area around the injection site will become painful and tender to the touch. This is one of the first signs of infiltration.
- Swelling: The fluid accumulation in the tissue causes swelling around the IV site.
- Redness: The affected area may become red and inflamed.
- Coolness: The skin around the injection site can feel cooler than the surrounding areas.
- Burning Sensation: Some patients might experience a burning sensation.
- Reduced IV Flow: The IV fluid may not flow freely, or the rate may significantly decrease.
- In Severe Cases: According to references, left untreated, IV infiltration can lead to severe complications including emergency amputation in extreme cases where infiltration is severe.
How Does IV Infiltration Occur?
Several factors can cause an IV injection to miss the vein:
- Catheter Puncture: The catheter might puncture all the way through the vein, delivering the fluid outside the vessel.
- Catheter Displacement: The catheter can become dislodged from its position inside the vein, especially during patient movement.
- Fragile Veins: Individuals with fragile veins or conditions that affect vein health might be more susceptible to infiltration.
Management and Prevention
It's important to monitor IV sites closely to catch any signs of infiltration early. Here are some preventive measures:
- Proper Insertion Technique: Ensuring correct insertion of the IV catheter by a trained professional is key.
- Regular Site Checks: Regularly checking the IV site for signs of infiltration and reporting any issues promptly.
- Careful Handling: Handling the IV site gently, and avoiding excessive movement.
- Selection of Appropriate Vein: Choosing a suitable vein that can accommodate the IV catheter.
Summary Table
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Pain/Tenderness | Localized pain and tenderness around the IV site |
| Swelling | Fluid accumulation leads to noticeable swelling |
| Redness | Inflamed appearance of the skin |
| Coolness | Skin around the IV site may feel cool to the touch |
| Burning | Patients can experience a burning sensation around injection area |
| Reduced Flow | IV fluids no longer flow freely |
| Severe Cases | In extreme situations, may necessitate emergency amputation if left untreated |
