Which factor can increase the risk of complications during IV therapy?

Poor patient hydration status can indeed increase the risk of complications during IV therapy. When a patient is dehydrated, their veins can become more difficult to access due to reduced vein prominence. This can lead to multiple attempts at venipuncture, increasing the risk of trauma to the vein and causing complications such as hematoma formation, infiltration, or extravasation. Additionally, dehydrated patients may be more susceptible to complications like fluid overload if the IV therapy is not carefully monitored, as their body may struggle to handle the fluid adequately.

In contrast, regular monitoring of vital signs, the use of a calibrated infusion pump, and adherence to aseptic techniques are all practices that help reduce the risk of complications. Regular monitoring allows for timely detection of potential issues, while a calibrated infusion pump ensures accurate delivery of fluids, and aseptic techniques prevent infections. Thus, maintaining good hydration status is critical for minimizing the risks associated with IV therapy.