A client has intravenous therapy for the administration of antibiotics

A client has intravenous therapy for the administration of antibiotics and is stating that the “IV site hurts and is swollen.” Which of the following information assessed on the client indicates the presence of phlebitis, as opposed to infiltration?

1. Intensity of the pain
2. Warmth of integument surrounding the IV site
3. Amount of subcutaneous edema
4. Skin discoloration of a bruised nature

ANSWER

ANS: 2
Signs of phlebitis may include increased temperature over the vein, erythema, pain, and edema. With phlebitis, the area is warm to the touch; with infiltration, the area is cool to the touch. The intensity of pain is not a differentiating factor between phlebitis and infiltration. Pain may occur with both. The amount of subcutaneous edema is not a differentiating factor between phlebitis and infiltration. Edema may occur with both. Skin discoloration of a bruised nature is not the best way to differentiate phlebitis from infiltration. With phlebitis, the area is typically reddened. With infiltration, the area is typically pale.