A burning sensation at an IV site most likely indicates which complication?

A burning sensation at an IV site most likely indicates which complication?

• A. Phlebitis leading to thrombophlebitis
• B. Infiltration
• C. Infection
• D. Edema

Answer: (A)

Burning at an IV site signals inflammation of the vein—phlebitis—from the IV catheter or the infused solution. This irritation causes local pain, warmth, and tenderness along the vein, which is why this symptom points to phlebitis. If a clot forms in the inflamed vein, it becomes thrombophlebitis, a progression that can raise the risk of vein occlusion. Infiltration presents with cool, pale, swollen tissue around the IV and leakage; infection would bring systemic signs such as fever and purulent drainage; edema is mainly swelling without the specific vein inflammation. If phlebitis/thrombophlebitis is suspected, stop the IV, remove the catheter, apply a warm compress, and start a new IV at a different site while monitoring for increasing redness or streaking and other signs.

Burning at an IV site signals inflammation of the vein—phlebitis—from the IV catheter or the infused solution. This irritation causes local pain, warmth, and tenderness along the vein, which is why this symptom points to phlebitis. If a clot forms in the inflamed vein, it becomes thrombophlebitis, a progression that can raise the risk of vein occlusion. Infiltration presents with cool, pale, swollen tissue around the IV and leakage; infection would bring systemic signs such as fever and purulent drainage; edema is mainly swelling without the specific vein inflammation. If phlebitis/thrombophlebitis is suspected, stop the IV, remove the catheter, apply a warm compress, and start a new IV at a different site while monitoring for increasing redness or streaking and other signs.