Which signs indicate phlebitis?

• A. Warmth, redness, tenderness on palpation
• B. Coolness, swelling, blanching
• C. Numbness, tingling, itching
• D. No pain but swelling

Answer: (A)

Phlebitis presents as local inflammatory changes along a vein, especially around an IV site. The best indicators are warmth, redness, and tenderness on palpation. Warmth occurs because inflammation increases blood flow to the area; redness results from vasodilation and fluid leakage into surrounding tissues; tenderness on touching the vein reflects irritation of the vein wall. Swelling can accompany these signs, and you might feel a palpable cord along the vein. Other sensations like numbness, tingling, or itching aren’t typical of phlebitis, and coolness or blanching point to different problems such as poor perfusion. Pain is common with phlebitis, so the presence of pain with warmth and redness makes this set of signs the most consistent and specific for phlebitis.