Complications

Written by Stephen Francis on . Posted in Uncategorized

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The table shows the most common complications associated with PIVCs. Frequent assessment will help to minimise complications.

COMPLICATION SIGNS IMAGE
Phlebitis is the most common PIVC complication.
  • warmth
  • tenderness
  • erythema
  • palpable venous cord
Hematoma occurs when blood leaks from the vein into the surrounding soft tissue.
  • ecchymosis
  • pain at the site
  • swelling and hardness at site
  • inability to advance cannula all the way into vein during insertion
  • inability to flush IV line
Infiltration is the escape of non-vesicant infusate into the surrounding tissue.
  • coolness of skin
  • swelling
  • slowing of infusion rate
  • discomfort
  • possible leakage of infusate from site
Extravasation is the escape of a vesicant solution into the surrounding tissue. It can cause severe harm depending on the type of solution. Same as for infiltration, however the result can be far more severe.