Which of the following is a manifestation of infiltration?

Swelling around the injection site is a key indicator of infiltration. Infiltration occurs when the IV fluid or medication leaks into the surrounding tissue instead of staying within the vein. This typically leads to an accumulation of fluid in the interstitial space, which manifests as noticeable swelling at the site.

Unlike the other potential indicators, swelling is a direct physical response to the fluid accumulation caused by improper placement or dislodgment of the IV catheter. Redness along the vein may indicate phlebitis or infection rather than infiltration. Warmth and edema could suggest other conditions, such as infection or thrombosis, but these symptoms are not exclusive to infiltration. Pain and tenderness in the chest are unrelated to infiltration and could signal a more serious condition requiring immediate attention. Hence, the noticeable swelling around the injection site distinctly identifies infiltration as a complication of IV therapy.