Which of the following are primary complications of IV therapy?

• A. Local infection at catheter site, vascular damage, phlebitis, vein infiltration, vein extravasation with vesicant, air embolism, circulatory overload, and transfusion reaction
• B. Hair loss and skin rashes
• C. Hypoglycemia due to insulin drip
• D. DVT due to immobility only

Answer: (A)

IV therapy has several complications that are directly tied to the catheter, the infusion, or the transfused product, affecting both the local site and the whole circulation. The best answer list covers the classic primary IV-related risks: local infection at the catheter site, vascular damage to the vein, phlebitis, vein infiltration, extravasation of vesicant drugs causing tissue injury, air embolism, circulatory overload from too rapid or excessive infusion, and transfusion reaction. These problems arise specifically from the IV line, fluids, or medications, and they are the core concerns healthcare providers monitor for when administering IV therapy.

Hair loss and skin rashes aren’t typically considered primary IV-related complications. A hypoglycemia event from an insulin drip is a possible risk when insulin is given, but it’s a medication management issue rather than a broad, direct complication of IV therapy itself. DVT due to immobility is a general risk factor in hospitalized patients, not a complication caused by the IV process itself.