Infiltration
-the infusion of solution or medication into the tissues surrounding an IV catheter entry site

Phlebitis
-inflammation of the vein intima
Mechanical:
-inflammation of the vein wall from an IV catheter
Chemical:
-inflammation of the vein wall from a medication or high osmolarity solution

Thrombophlebitis
-a thrombus accumulation around the catheter and along the length of the vein

Emboli
Air:
-an amount of air infused into the blood stream

Catheter
-a sheared piece of catheter enters the blood stream

Thrombus
-a “clot” which accumulate around an IV catheter

Infection
Localized:
-the presence of organisms at the entry point and along the track of a catheter in the vein

Pneumothorax
-entry of air into the pleural space causing a lung to collapse

Hemothorax
-blood enters and/or fills the pleural spaces

Chylothorax
-the collection of chyle (lymph fluid) in the pleural spaces

Intravascular Tip
Malposition:
-the catheter internal tip moves out of the SVC position, tip may move into the jugular vein, double back on itself or migrate into the right atrium

Sepsis:
-the presence of microorganisms and their toxins in the blood stream

Thrombosis
-accumulation of a clot in the vein around the catheter

Catheter Occlusion
-blockage of the internal lumen of the catheter with either a blood clot or drug precipitate

Catheter Rapture
-excess pressure or force used to infuse into or flush

Catheter Emboli
-a fragment of catheter material enters the blood circulation