Which statement describes an IV complication not listed in the material?

• A. Air Embolism
• B. Phlebitis
• C. Extravasation
• D. Sepsis

Answer: (D)

The concept here is distinguishing local IV complications from systemic infection. Local IV complications are problems that occur at or near the vein or with the infusion itself, such as air entering the line causing an air embolism, irritation of the vein leading to phlebitis, or leakage of IV fluid into surrounding tissue causing extravasation. These are immediate, site-specific issues that nurses monitor during infusion.

Sepsis, by contrast, is a systemic response to infection and not a direct, local IV complication. It can occur if an IV catheter becomes infected and bacteria enter the bloodstream, leading to a catheter-associated bloodstream infection that may progress to sepsis. While sepsis is a serious risk related to IV therapy, many basic lists of IV complications emphasize local, immediate problems, so sepsis isn’t typically listed as an IV complication in that context. Prevention and management focus on aseptic technique, proper catheter care, and removing the catheter if infection is suspected, but its classification is broader and not a standard local IV complication.