What is the most common complication associated with an IV that is incorrectly placed?

Infiltration is the most common complication associated with an incorrectly placed intravenous (IV) catheter. Infiltration occurs when the IV catheter becomes dislodged from the vein or when the vein itself is punctured, causing the IV fluid to leak into the surrounding tissue instead of remaining within the vein. This can lead to swelling, discomfort, and in some cases, tissue damage at the site.

When an IV is incorrectly placed, it may not be properly positioned within the vein, making it susceptible to infiltration. This is particularly important to monitor because symptoms can vary from mild to severe depending on the volume of fluid infiltrated and the type of solution being administered.

In contrast, while other complications like extravasation, infection, or air embolism can occur with IV therapy, infiltration is more prevalent due to the frequency of improper catheter placement or the catheter becoming dislodged during use. Understanding the nature of infiltration helps in recognizing and addressing it promptly to minimize patient discomfort and prevent further complications.