Which symptom suggests an air embolism during IV therapy?

• A. Sudden dyspnea and chest pain
• B. Itching at the injection site
• C. Mild fatigue
• D. Sneezing

Answer: (A)

Air entering a vein during IV therapy can cause an air embolism, which disrupts blood flow to the lungs and heart and leads to rapid, life-threatening symptoms. The telltale sign is sudden difficulty breathing and chest pain, reflecting the airway and circulatory compromise from the entrained air. This combination is the most concerning and requires immediate action: stop the IV and clamp the line, position the patient in the left lateral decubitus position with the head down to trap air in the right atrium, administer high-flow oxygen, and call for help. The other options—itching at the injection site, mild fatigue, and sneezing—do not fit this acute emergency scenario.