Intravenous (IV) Therapy Practice Exam

The signs of extravasation during IV therapy primarily include swelling, pain, and blistering at the IV site. Extravasation occurs when intravenous fluids or medications leak into the surrounding tissue instead of being delivered into the bloodstream. This can cause inflammatory responses, manifesting as swelling due to fluid accumulation, pain due to tissue irritation, and blistering as the skin reacts to the infiltration of the solution. Recognizing these signs is crucial because extravasation can lead to severe tissue damage if not addressed promptly.

In contrast to the correct choice, the other options pertain to systemic physiological responses or issues unrelated to the localized effects expected from extravasation. Increased heart rate and lowered blood pressure may indicate a different type of systemic reaction or complication but do not directly correlate with the localized symptoms of extravasation. Similarly, redness of the conjunctiva is not relevant to IV site complications and is more related to ocular conditions. Understanding these distinctions is vital for effective monitoring and timely intervention in IV therapy.