Infiltration signs include which of the following?

• A. Edema, coolness, numbness, pain
• B. Redness around the IV site
• C. Increased warmth and erythema
• D. Bleeding at the IV site

Answer: (A)

Infiltration happens when IV fluid leaks into the surrounding tissue rather than staying in the vein. The hallmark signs come from that interstitial fluid buildup: edema around the IV site indicates swelling from fluid escaping into soft tissue; the area often feels cool to the touch because the leaked fluid is at a different temperature and perfusion is reduced; numbness or tingling can occur as tissue pressure from the swelling starts to press on nerves; and pain can result from tissue distension. Redness and warmth around the IV site point more toward inflammation or infection of the vein (phlebitis), while bleeding at the IV site suggests catheter dislodgement or vein injury rather than infiltration. So the combination of edema with coolness and sensory changes like numbness and pain best describes infiltration signs.