To manage an extravasation when aspiration is not possible, what is the correct initial action?

• A. Stop infusion, disconnect line, notify physician, and follow extravasation protocol.
• B. Continue infusion at slower rate.
• C. Flush with saline.
• D. Apply ice.

Answer: (A)

The key action is to stop the infusion immediately and disconnect the line to prevent any more drug from entering the tissue. When aspiration isn’t possible, there’s no quick way to remove the leaked drug from the tissue, so halting exposure is the priority. After stopping, notify the physician and follow the extravasation protocol to ensure that the correct antidotes or treatments are given and the situation is documented properly. Flushing with saline would only push more drug into the tissue and delay appropriate treatment, while continuing the infusion would worsen injury. Ice or other cooling procedures aren’t the initial step; they may be used later based on the specific agent and protocol, but the first move is to stop and escalate.