Archer Pharmacology – Dosage Calculation and Medication Administration Practice Test 2026 - Free Pharmacology Practice Questions and Study Guide

When IV infiltration occurs, the fluid is leaking into surrounding tissue, which can cause swelling, pain, and tissue damage if the flow continues. The most important first step is to stop the source of leakage, so the IV infusion should be halted and the catheter removed. This immediately prevents any more fluid from filling the tissue and gives you a safe site to assess for extent of infiltration and potential tissue injury. After the catheter is removed, you can evaluate the area, apply appropriate care (such as pressure to control bleeding and dressing), and start a new IV at a different site if continued therapy is needed. Repositioning the same catheter or simply reducing the rate could allow ongoing leakage or fail to address tissue injury, and warming or cooling the site is determined after the initial stop/removal and site assessment.