Infiltration is the most common complication associated with intravenous (IV) therapy. This occurs when IV fluids leak out of the vein and into the surrounding tissue.
Understanding IV Infiltration
IV infiltration happens when the intravenous catheter's tip is dislodged from the vein, causing the infused fluid to seep into the surrounding soft tissues. This can lead to swelling, pain, and discomfort at the IV site. Several factors can contribute to infiltration, including improper catheter placement, patient movement, and fragile veins.
Several sources confirm infiltration as the most prevalent complication:
- Multiple studies highlight infiltration/extravasation as the most frequent complication of peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) use. [12, 15]
- Clinical guidelines emphasize the importance of checking IV site patency to prevent infiltration before administering medications. [15]
- Medical texts list infiltration among the common complications of IV therapy, along with other issues like hematoma, phlebitis, and air embolism. [15]
Preventing and Managing IV Infiltration
- Careful Catheter Placement: Proper insertion technique is crucial to minimize the risk of infiltration.
- Regular Monitoring: Frequent monitoring of the IV site helps detect infiltration early.
- Patient Education: Instructing patients about the importance of remaining still and reporting any discomfort can prevent complications.
- Immediate Intervention: Prompt recognition and management of infiltration, which may involve stopping the infusion and applying cold or warm compresses, can limit tissue damage.
While other complications such as phlebitis (inflammation of the vein), hematoma (blood clot), and infection can occur, infiltration consistently appears as the most frequently reported issue in studies and clinical practice related to intravenous catheter use.
