Flashcard 10 - Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies Flashcard Set for the NCLEX-RN Exam

extravasation

Extravasation is most severe when the intravenous medication is caustic such as a chemotherapeutic agent. Early signs can include loss of blood return, numbness, tingling, pain, burning, redness, swelling, and slowed rate of infusion. Later signs may include blistering, ulceration, severe pain, and frank necrosis.