Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 86%
Simulated
A nurse is working with a licensed practical nurse (LPN) to care for a client who is receiving a continuous IV infusion. Which of the following findings reported by the LPN indicates to the nurse the client has phlebitis at the IV insertion site?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
The correct answer is A because warmth at the insertion site is a classic sign of phlebitis, indicating inflammation of the vein. This is due to irritation from the IV catheter. Choice B is incorrect because the infusion rate stopping is not specific to phlebitis. Choice C is incorrect as fluid leaking suggests an issue with the dressing or the catheter. Choice D is incorrect as no blood return could indicate a clot but not necessarily phlebitis.