Which description describes signs of IV phlebitis and the appropriate initial actions?

• A. Redness, warmth, tenderness along the vein; stop infusion, remove catheter, restart at a new site, apply a warm compress.
• B. Swelling at the site with cool skin.
• C. Fever and chills; continue infusion.
• D. Shortness of breath; discontinue line.

Answer: (A)

The main concept is recognizing signs of IV phlebitis and taking prompt initial actions to prevent the problem from worsening. Phlebitis shows up as redness, warmth, and tenderness along the vein where the IV is placed. When these signs appear, the best first steps are to stop the IV infusion, remove the catheter, restart at a new venous site, and apply a warm, moist compress to the area. This approach helps relieve inflammation, protects the vein, and keeps IV access available for future use. Other descriptions describe different issues: swelling with cool skin points to infiltration, fever and chills with continued infusion suggest a possible infection requiring different handling, and shortness of breath indicates a more acute reaction requiring immediate discontinuation and assessment.