Which sequence describes the correct response to suspected IV extravasation of a vesicant?

• A. Stop the infusion, disconnect line, attempt to aspirate drug if possible, notify physician, and follow extravasation protocol.
• B. Continue infusion, then apply cold compress.
• C. Flush line with saline.
• D. Observe and document.

Answer: (C)

When a vesicant leaks into tissue, the priority is to limit further exposure of the tissue to the drug. Flushing the line with saline directly reduces the amount of vesicant present in the catheter and in contact with the vein, which lowers the concentration that could spread into surrounding tissues. This action helps minimize potential tissue injury and buys time to implement the appropriate extravasation protocol and notify the physician. In practice, this step would come after stopping the infusion or as part of a protocol to remove residual drug from the catheter, and it is followed by the required steps outlined by the extravasation protocol.