What is the term for the leakage of IV fluid into surrounding tissue?

The term for the leakage of IV fluid into the surrounding tissue is infiltration. Infiltration occurs when the IV catheter becomes dislodged or the vein is not punctured correctly, allowing the infusion fluid to escape from the vascular system into the surrounding tissues. This can lead to swelling, discomfort, and potentially damage to the surrounding tissues.

Understanding infiltration is key for effective IV therapy, as it can be a common complication that needs to be recognized promptly to prevent further issues. It is important for healthcare providers to monitor the IV site for signs of infiltration, such as swelling or changes in temperature and skin color.

In contrast, extravasation refers specifically to the leakage of medication that can cause irritation or damage to tissue, which is a more severe situation than simple infiltration. Phlebitis refers to inflammation of the vein, usually due to irritation from the catheter or the infused fluid, and embolism indicates a blockage within a blood vessel, which is unrelated to fluid leakage. These distinctions highlight the importance of identifying infiltration accurately in IV therapy practice.