Which symptom may indicate the presence of phlebitis in a patient?

The presence of tenderness, warmth, and edema at the IV site is a classic indication of phlebitis. Phlebitis refers to the inflammation of a vein, often occurring as a result of irritation from the IV catheter or medications administered through it. When a vein becomes inflamed, it typically leads to localized symptoms such as swelling (edema), increased warmth in the area due to increased blood flow, and tenderness upon palpation. These signs are important for healthcare providers to recognize because they can indicate that the IV site may require intervention, such as removal of the catheter and potential treatment of the inflammation.

In contrast, other options include symptoms that are either unrelated to phlebitis or indicative of different issues. For instance, cool, pale skin around the IV site may suggest poor circulation or an occluded vein, which is distinct from inflammation. Signs of infection, like pus, indicate a possible systemic infection or localized infection rather than phlebitis specifically. Excessive bruising at the insertion point may indicate trauma or bleeding rather than inflammation of the vein. Thus, the specific combination of warmth, tenderness, and edema strongly points to the diagnosis of phlebitis.