Word parts
What it means
Inflammation of the wall of a vein. It is a common problem at peripheral IV sites, caused by the catheter rubbing the vein, irritating drugs or fluids, or infection. The area is red, warm, swollen and painful, and there may be a red streak or a firm, cord-like vein. When a clot forms too, it is called thrombophlebitis.
For the nurse
Check IV sites often. If phlebitis develops, stop the infusion, remove the catheter, restart the IV in another limb if needed, and follow policy for warm compresses and charting the phlebitis score.
Related terms
infiltration
The leaking of IV fluid or a drug that is not harmful to tissue out of the vein into the tissue around the IV site.
peripheral IV
A short, thin tube placed in a vein of the arm or hand (or another vein away from the chest) to give fluids and drugs.