When should the IV site be assessed for complications?

Assessing the IV site for complications at the beginning of each shift is crucial because it establishes a baseline for the condition of the IV site. This assessment allows healthcare providers to identify any potential issues early on, such as signs of infiltration, phlebitis, or infection, which can lead to severe complications if left unaddressed. Regular and consistent assessment helps in ensuring patient safety and the effective management of the IV therapy.

While assessing the IV site during medication administration or when a patient complains can be important, relying solely on these times may result in missing complications that develop between assessments. Similarly, assessing every four hours could lead to delays in recognizing problems if they arise suddenly. Therefore, initiating an assessment at the beginning of each shift provides a comprehensive opportunity to evaluate the IV site more thoroughly and in a timely manner.