Which of the following is a common complication of IV therapy?

Which of the following is a common complication of IV therapy?

• A. Hyperglycemia
• B. Catheter occlusion
• C. Hypotension
• D. Intestinal obstruction

Answer: (B)

Catheter occlusion is a common complication of intravenous (IV) therapy and is primarily caused by factors such as thrombosis, precipitate formation, or improper flushing practices. When an IV catheter becomes occluded, it can lead to interrupted medication delivery, complications in the patient's treatment plan, and potential discomfort or harm. In the context of IV therapy, maintaining patency is crucial for the successful administration of fluids and medications. If a catheter is not properly maintained or if debris accumulates, it can obstruct the flow, necessitating interventions such as catheter replacement or the use of thrombolytics. This reflects the importance of proper technique in both the placement and care of IV access devices. While hyperglycemia, hypotension, and intestinal obstruction are medical concerns that can arise in various clinical situations, they are not typically classified as common complications directly related to IV therapy. Hyperglycemia usually relates to metabolic issues, hypotension may reflect fluid imbalance or other electrolyte concerns, and intestinal obstruction pertains more to gastrointestinal issues rather than vascular access complications. Understanding catheter occlusion helps in recognizing the challenges in managing IV therapy and underscores the need for vigilant monitoring and maintenance practices.

Catheter occlusion is a common complication of intravenous (IV) therapy and is primarily caused by factors such as thrombosis, precipitate formation, or improper flushing practices. When an IV catheter becomes occluded, it can lead to interrupted medication delivery, complications in the patient's treatment plan, and potential discomfort or harm.

In the context of IV therapy, maintaining patency is crucial for the successful administration of fluids and medications. If a catheter is not properly maintained or if debris accumulates, it can obstruct the flow, necessitating interventions such as catheter replacement or the use of thrombolytics. This reflects the importance of proper technique in both the placement and care of IV access devices.

While hyperglycemia, hypotension, and intestinal obstruction are medical concerns that can arise in various clinical situations, they are not typically classified as common complications directly related to IV therapy. Hyperglycemia usually relates to metabolic issues, hypotension may reflect fluid imbalance or other electrolyte concerns, and intestinal obstruction pertains more to gastrointestinal issues rather than vascular access complications. Understanding catheter occlusion helps in recognizing the challenges in managing IV therapy and underscores the need for vigilant monitoring and maintenance practices.