Which signs are classic indicators of phlebitis at an IV site?

Which signs are classic indicators of phlebitis at an IV site?

• A. Pain, swelling, warmth at the site, redness
• B. Fever and chills
• C. Shortness of breath
• D. Nausea and vomiting

Answer: (B)

Phlebitis is inflammation of a vein from IV therapy, and its hallmark is localized irritation along the vein. The classic signs are pain or tenderness at the IV site, redness (erythema) along or around the vein, warmth over the area, and swelling. A palpable, cord-like vein may also be felt. Fever and chills are systemic and can indicate infection elsewhere, but they are not the typical localized indicators of phlebitis. Shortness of breath or nausea and vomiting aren’t characteristic signs of phlebitis at the IV site. So the signs that best indicate phlebitis are the localized pain, redness, warmth, and swelling at the IV site.

Phlebitis is inflammation of a vein from IV therapy, and its hallmark is localized irritation along the vein. The classic signs are pain or tenderness at the IV site, redness (erythema) along or around the vein, warmth over the area, and swelling. A palpable, cord-like vein may also be felt. Fever and chills are systemic and can indicate infection elsewhere, but they are not the typical localized indicators of phlebitis. Shortness of breath or nausea and vomiting aren’t characteristic signs of phlebitis at the IV site. So the signs that best indicate phlebitis are the localized pain, redness, warmth, and swelling at the IV site.