The inadvertent leakage of intravenous (IV) fluid or treatment into the encompassing tissue is a standard complication related to peripheral IV cannulation. This happens when the IV catheter dislodges from the vein, perforates the vein wall, or when the vein turns into fragile and leaks. For example, if a affected person is receiving a steady IV infusion of antibiotics, and the insertion website turns into swollen and painful, it’s seemingly that the fluid is not getting into the vein however is as a substitute accumulating within the adjoining tissue.
Recognition and immediate administration are important to attenuate affected person discomfort and stop potential problems. Undetected or poorly managed extravasation can result in tissue harm, together with pores and skin breakdown, blistering, and in extreme instances, necrosis. Traditionally, recognizing the early indicators was primarily depending on medical remark and affected person reporting. Well timed identification facilitates intervention, which can embody stopping the infusion, elevating the affected limb, making use of heat or chilly compresses, and, in some instances, administering antidotes to counteract the results of sure medicines.
