Which action reduces the risk of infiltration when working with fragile veins in older adults?

• A. Use aggressive insertion.
• B. Use gentle technique, proper site selection, and appropriate catheter size.
• C. Use large gauge and fast insertion rate.
• D. Avoid checking site.

Answer: (B)

When working with fragile veins in older adults, the focus is on minimizing trauma to the vein to prevent infiltration. A gentle technique means handling the vein and catheter with care during insertion and advancement, reducing mechanical stress on the vein wall. Proper site selection involves choosing a vein that is stable, easy to access, and not compromised by edema or sclerosis, which lowers the risk of irritation and leakage. Using the smallest catheter size that can deliver the prescribed therapy minimizes dilation and injury to the vein, further reducing the chance of fluids seeping into surrounding tissue. Together, these steps address the vulnerability of aging veins and help keep the IV route secure.