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Risks of Intravenous Therapy

According to Kelli Rosenthal in the "Legal Aspects of IV Therapy," an article published by ResourceNurse, more than 90 percent of all patients will receive some type of intravenous therapy, more commonly known as IV therapy, during their time in the hospital. IV therapy is one of the highest-risk medication procedures administered by nurses. According to Rosenthal, IV therapy can be attributed to more than 60 percent of severe drug complications. The risks of intravenous therapy can be severe and even life-threatening.

  1. Complications

    • The risks of intravenous therapy include hypersensitivity, infiltration, infection, vein inflammation and extravasation, which can cause nerve damage, scarring and burns. Before administering IV therapy, nurses should inquire about your allergies and family history to allergies. The nurse should also stay with you for five to 10 minutes after administering IV therapy to watch for signs of hypersensitivity. Fever, rash, hives, wheezing and joint swelling are some allergic reactions you could experience during IV therapy. While unexpected complications may still occur, a careful and attentive nurse can prevent many of the pitfalls associated with IV therapy.

    Infiltration and Extravasation

    • Infiltration is caused by improper placement of the catheter and is the result of fluid leaking from the IV into tissues surrounding the insertion point. Older patients are more prone to this risk because their veins are typically fragile and thin. Common signs of infiltration include swelling, burning, tightness, cool skin and pain. The severity of the symptoms is related to the amount of fluid that leaks into the tissues. When infiltration occurs, immediately elevate the limb. Nurses should check the pulse and catheter insertion point to identify additional signs of discomfort.

      Extravasation is caused by the leaking of vesicant drugs into nearby tissues. Extravasation can lead to delayed healing, tissue necrosis, loss of mobility, disfigurement and possibly amputation. Sign of extravasation are the same as those associated with infiltration. Practicing proper administration techniques will help nurses prevent extravasation.

    Vein Inflammation

    • Vein inflammation, or phlebitis, is a common IV therapy complication associated with acidic or alkaline solution IV therapy. Phlebitis can be caused by trauma at the IV insertion point, using thin or fragile veins, extended use of the same IV insertion site and using the wrong size vascular access instrument. Vein inflammation can take two to three days after the vein is exposed to develop. It typically develops more quickly in distal veins versus those close to the heart. Redness or pain at the IV insertion site, vein swelling and fever are signs of phlebitis. Close observation of the IV insertion site and use of proper methods can prevent vein inflammation.

    Infection

    • Redness, fever and discharge of the IV solution can be signs of an infection. Your physician should be notified if this occurs. Your nurse should monitor your vital signs, administer prescribed medications and remove the IV catheter.

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