Which signs are indicative of an air embolism during IV therapy?

• A. Tachycardia, chest pain and dyspnea, hypotension, cyanosis, and decreased LOC
• B. Hypertension and bradycardia
• C. Fever with rash
• D. Cough and runny nose

Answer: (B)

Air embolism during IV therapy presents with acute cardiovascular and respiratory distress due to air entering the venous system and traveling to the lungs. The signs that fit this scenario are tachycardia, chest pain and dyspnea, hypotension, cyanosis, and decreased level of consciousness. This combination reflects pulmonary obstruction from the air, resulting in hypoxia, increased right heart strain, and compromised cerebral perfusion, hence the rapid heart rate, chest symptoms, low blood pressure, blue-tinged color, and altered mental status.

The other possibilities don’t align with this acute embolic process. Hypertension with bradycardia is not typical of venous air embolism, which more commonly causes tachycardia and hypotension. Fever with a rash suggests an allergic reaction or infection, not an immediate embolic event. Cough and runny nose are mild upper-airway symptoms that don’t explain the sudden severe cardiopulmonary and neuro changes seen with an air embolism.

If an air embolism is suspected, stop the IV infusion immediately, position the patient on the left side in the head-down (Durant) position to help trap air in the right atrium and prevent it from entering the pulmonary circulation, administer 100% oxygen, and notify the provider promptly.