Which signs are associated with IV infiltration?

• A. Coolness, trouble flushing meds, swelling
• B. Warmth, redness, tenderness
• C. Burning sensation only
• D. No changes at the site

Answer: (A)

IV infiltration happens when fluid leaks into the surrounding tissue instead of staying inside the vein. This causes the area around the IV site to feel cool because the fluid is outside the vascular system and reduces skin perfusion. Swelling occurs as fluid accumulates in the soft tissues. If you try to flush the line and it doesn’t move freely, that trouble flushing is a clue that the catheter may no longer be in the vein or the tissue around it is swollen, hindering flow. Together, these signs—cool skin, swelling, and difficulty flushing—point to infiltration.

Warmth, redness, and tenderness are more typical of inflammation of the vein (phlebitis) or infection rather than infiltration. A burning sensation can occur with irritation but isn’t the defining sign of infiltration by itself. No changes at the site would suggest there isn’t an infiltration happening.