The patient is experiencing pain at her IV site along with redness, swelling, and a palpable venous cord. What complication might she have?

The situation described indicates that the patient is experiencing pain at the IV site, accompanied by redness, swelling, and a palpable venous cord. These symptoms are characteristic of phlebitis, which is an inflammation of the vein. Phlebitis can occur due to irritation from the catheter itself, trauma during insertion, or an infection at the site.

The pain experienced by the patient, along with the visible signs of inflammation such as redness and swelling, suggests that the body is responding to irritation or injury to the vein. The palpable venous cord indicates that the vein itself may be inflamed and possibly narrowed, which aligns with the known symptoms of phlebitis.

Recognizing phlebitis is crucial because it not only causes discomfort for the patient but can also lead to more serious complications if not addressed promptly. Treatment often includes removing the IV catheter, applying a warm compress to the area, and possibly administering anti-inflammatory medications as directed. Monitoring and prevention, such as using appropriate techniques during IV insertion and selecting suitable veins, can help reduce the risk of phlebitis in patients receiving IV therapy.