Complications of Intravenous therapy

Complications of Intravenous therapy ( 39 Questions)

A nurse is caring for a client with a peripheral IV catheter in place. The client complains of tenderness and a palpable, cord-like structure along the vein. The nurse should suspect which complication of IV therapy?


Correct Answer: D

A) This choice is incorrect because infiltration is characterized by swelling, coolness, and pallor around the insertion site, not a palpable, cord-like structure along the vein.

B) This choice is incorrect because phlebitis typically presents with redness, warmth, and swelling around the insertion site, not a palpable, cord-like structure.

C) This choice is incorrect because fluid overload is not associated with a palpable, cord-like structure along the vein . It may cause generalized edema and increased blood pressure.

D) This choice is correct. The client's symptoms of tenderness and a palpable, cord-like structure along the vein are indicative of thrombophlebitis, which is the inflammation of a vein associated with the formation of a blood clot. The palpable cord-like structure is likely a thrombus within the vein.




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