Which of the following describes extravasation?

The correct choice describes extravasation as the leakage of vesicant IV fluid causing tissue damage. Extravasation occurs when a medication or fluid intended for administration into the bloodstream inadvertently escapes into the surrounding tissues. This is particularly concerning with vesicants—substances that can cause severe tissue injury upon extravasation due to their potential to damage cells and disrupt normal tissue function.

When vesicant fluids leak into the tissue, they can cause a range of adverse effects, including inflammation, pain, necrosis, or other serious injuries to the surrounding cells. Recognizing and responding to extravasation promptly is critical to minimize tissue damage. This understanding further highlights the importance of proper IV technique and ongoing monitoring of infusion sites for any signs of complications.

In this context, other options describe different concepts related to IV therapy and complications. For instance, non-vesicant fluid leaking would not typically cause severe damage, therefore differentiating it from extravasation. Inflammation caused by irritants relates more broadly to the body's response to any irritant substance rather than specifically addressing the consequences of vesicant fluids. Lastly, the formation of blood clots is a separate complication called thrombosis, which does not pertain to the concept of extravasation