Complication of intravenouse Fluid

MANAGING SYSTEMIC COMPLICATIONS
IV therapy predisposes the patient to numerous hazards, including both local and systemic complications.
Fluid Overload. Overloading the circulatory system with excessive IV fluids causes increased blood pressure and central venous pressure. Signs and symptoms of fluid overload include moist crackles on auscultation of the lungs, edema, weight gain, dyspnea, and respirations that are shallow and have an increased rate. The treatment for circulatory overload is decreasing the IV rate, monitoring vital signs frequently, assessing breath sounds, and placing the patient in a high Fowler’s position.
Air Embolism. The risk of air embolism is rare but ever-present.It is most often associated with cannulation of central veins. Manifestations of air embolism include dyspnea and cyanosis; hypotension; weak, rapid pulse; loss of consciousness; and chest, shoulder, and low back pain. Treatment calls for immediately clamping the cannula, placing the patient on the left side in the
Trendelenburg position, assessing vital signs and breath sounds, and administering oxygen. Air embolism can be prevented by filling all tubing completely with solution, and using an air detection alarm on an IV pump. Complications of air embolism include shock and death.
Septicemia and Other Infection. Pyrogenic substances in either the infusion solution or the IV administration set can induce a febrile reaction and septicemia. Signs and symptoms include an abrupt temperature elevation shortly after the infusion is started, backache, headache, increased pulse and respiratory rate, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, chills and shaking, and general malaise. In severe septicemia, vascular collapse and septic shock may occur. Causes of septicemia include contamination of the IV product or a break in aseptic technique, especially in immunocompromised patients. Treatment is symptomatic and includes culturing of the
IV cannula, tubing, or solution if suspect and establishing a new IV site for medication or fluid administration. infusion