What condition is characterized by a reddened and warm IV site with patient-reported soreness?

Phlebitis is characterized by inflammation of the vein, which often presents with symptoms such as redness, warmth at the IV site, and soreness reported by the patient. This inflammatory response can occur due to various factors including irritation from the IV catheter or the infused solution. The warmth and redness result from increased blood flow to the affected area as part of the body's immune response. Soreness is a common symptom experienced by patients, making phlebitis a likely diagnosis when these signs are observed at an IV site.

On the other hand, options like infiltration typically involve swelling, pallor, and coolness at the site, indicating that fluid is leaking into surrounding tissues rather than inflammation of the vein itself. Fluid overload is associated with systemic symptoms rather than localized warmth and redness, and hematomas present as swelling and discoloration caused by bleeding under the skin, not inflammation. Thus, when evaluating symptoms such as reddened skin, warmth, and soreness, phlebitis is the condition that best matches this clinical presentation.