IV (intravenous) infusion is a common medical procedure used to deliver fluids, medications, blood products, and nutrients directly into the bloodstream. IV infusion is generally safe but adverse effects are sometimes observed in patients e.g.
- Infiltration: swelling, pain, and coolness around the IV site caused by IV fluid or medication leaking into the surrounding tissue instead of going into the vein.
- Phlebitis: redness, warmth, tenderness, and swelling around the IV site caused by inflammation of the vein resulting from the IV catheter itself or the medication being infused.
- Extravasation: tissue necrosis resulting from severe infiltration of vesicant drug (a medication that can cause tissue damage) into the surrounding tissue.
- Air Embolism: The presence of air in the bloodstream, which can be life-threatening if it reaches vital organs like the heart or lungs. Symptoms might include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a drop in blood pressure.
- Hematoma: A collection of blood near the IV site, usually resulting from a failed insertion attempt or the needle puncturing through the vein.
- Infection: localized infections at the IV site resulting from bacteria entering the body through the IV line. Can lead to more severe systemic infections like sepsis.
- Fluid Overload: swelling, high blood pressure, and shortness of breath that occurs if fluids are infused too quickly, especially in patients with compromised heart or kidney function.
- Hypersensitivity or Allergic Reactions: mild (itching, rash) to severe (anaphylaxis with difficulty breathing and a drop in blood pressure) resulting from allergic reactions to the medication being infused.
- Speed Shock: dizziness, facial flushing, headache, or a rapid heart rate occurring from rapid infusion
- Thrombosis: formation of a blood clots inside the vein, caused by the IV catheter or the infused substance.
- Electrolyte Imbalance: potential complications like heart rhythm disturbances resulting from altered balance of electrolytes (like sodium, potassium, and calcium) cuased by some IV solutions.
- Drug Interactions: adverse effects resulting from interactions of drugs a particular patient is taking.
- Catheter Embolism: A rare but serious complication resulting from blockage of small blood vessels by pieces of the IV catheter breaking off and traveling through the bloodstream.
- Chemical Phlebitis: Irritation of the vein lining that occurs when a medication is administered.
- Bleeding: Especially in patients with clotting disorders or those on anticoagulant medications.
Patients should be monitored closely during IV infusion. Patients should also be educated about potential adverse effects and encouraged to report any unusual symptoms immediately. Proper insertion techniques, regular assessment of the IV site, and following guidelines for IV management can help minimize the risk of these complication.