What does infiltration of an IV mean?
Infiltration. Infiltration occurs when I.V. fluid or medications leak into the surrounding tissue. Infiltration can be caused by improper placement or dislodgment of the catheter. Patient movement can cause the catheter to slip out or through the blood vessel lumen.
What is IV extravasation?
Extravasation refers to the leakage of injected drugs from blood vessels causing damage to the surrounding tissues. Common symptoms and signs of extravasation include pain, stinging or burning sensations, and edema around the intravenous (IV) injection site.
What is infiltration and extravasation?
The infiltration may cause the patient some mild discomfort and may require stopping the infusion and re-siting the IV elsewhere. Extravasation, however, occurs when a vesicant (agent that is irritating to human tissue) is inadvertently administered into the surrounding tissue instead of into the intended vein.
How do you treat IV infiltration?
Treatment
- Stop the infusion.
- Remove the IV.
- Mark the outline affected area with a marker.
- Photograph the affected area.
- Apply a hot or cold compress based on the type of IV fluid infiltrated.
- Elevate the extremity.
- Inject medication into the subcutaneous tissue.
Can you sue for IV infiltration?
Infiltration can be caused by improper placement or dislodgement of the catheter. In some cases, patient movement can cause the catheter to slip out through the blood vessel lumen. A patient who has been injured by IV infiltration can typically file a medical malpractice claim against the at-fault party.
What to do if IV infiltration occurs?
How long does IV infiltration last?
How harmful is a blown vein? Blown veins require medical treatment, but they do not usually result in long-term damage to the vein and generally heal in 10–12 days. However, a blown vein can sometimes complicate medical treatment.
How is IV infiltration treated?
How is IV extravasation treated?
If extravasation occurs, the injection should be stopped immediately and the IV tubing disconnected. Avoid applying pressure to the site, and do not flush the line. Leave the original catheter in place, and attempt to aspirate as much of the infiltrated drug as possible.
What should you do if IV infiltration occurs?
How long does it take for IV infiltration to heal?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), bruising after a blood draw typically heals quickly. However, if the bruise is large, it may take 2–3 weeks to fade and disappear. A person should call their doctor if they experience any of the following symptoms : the hand becoming discolored.
What to do about an infiltrated IV?
Treating an IV Infiltration. The first step to treating infiltration is to discontinue the IV therapy. A healthcare provider will stop the IV fluid, apply a hot or cold compress based on the type of IV fluid infiltrated and elevate the extremity.
What is an infiltrated IV?
An infiltrated IV (intravenous) catheter happens when the catheter goes through or comes out of your vein. The IV fluid then leaks into the surrounding tissue. This may cause pain, swelling, and skin that is cool to the touch.
How to treat IV infiltration?
Use cold or heat packs as directed. Your healthcare provider will tell you which to use according to the type of infiltrated fluid. Rest and elevate your arm above the level of your heart as directed . This will help decrease swelling and pain. Prop your arm on pillows or blankets to keep it elevated comfortably.
How to treat infiltrated IV?
Your clinician will likely do the following: Stop the infusion Remove the IV Mark the outline affected area with a marker Photograph the affected area Apply a hot or cold compress based on the type of IV fluid infiltrated Elevate the extremity Inject medication into the subcutaneous tissue
