IV complications

[queenjulie, RN]

For which of the following IV complications would you immediately remove the IV?

infiltration

extravasation

phlebitis

thrombophlebitis

thrombosis

hematoma

localized infection at IV site

venous spasm

fluid overload

septicemia

speed shock

air embolism

catheter embolism (where the tip breaks off)

I'm fairly sure with infiltration, extravasation, and catheter embolism, you yank the IV immediately. And you leave it in for hematoma, and just document the bruise. But for the rest, do you guys have any idea? For speed shock and fluid overload, do you just slow or stop the IV without actually removing it?

[anonymousstudent]

Alright, talk through these, each one. Consider with each item 1) if the site is still patent and usable and 2) if the site is still needed. What do you think and why?

I'm just going to say that it's ridiculous speed shock is even on this list. I would answer that one by saying that you will NEVER push a med too fast, and thus never see speed shock.