A patient was admitted for hypovolemia and has IV fluid running at 250 mL/hr.The patient complains of burning at the IV insertion site.Upon assessment,the nurse does not find redness,swelling,heat,or coolness.The nurse suspects which of the following?

A) IV infiltration has occurred.
B) The IV catheter has caused phlebitis.
C) Fluid is infusing too quickly.
D) Patient is allergic to the fluid.

Question

Shambria Daniels · Accepted Answer

Final Answer : C, Explanation :  The infusion may be flowing faster than the vein can handle,which causes discomfort.The nurse should slow down the infusion.With infiltration,the skin around the IV insertion site becomes blanched,cool,and edematous.Pain,warmth,erythema,and a palpable venous cord are all symptoms of phlebitis.Allergic response to the fluid could involve a combination of itching,flushing,hypotension,and dyspnea,depending on the severity.

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