A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving a continuous IV infusion. The nurse notes that the skin around the catheter's insertion site is edematous and cool. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

The presence of edema and coolness around the catheter's insertion site suggests that infiltration may have occurred. Infiltration refers to the unintended leakage of fluid into the surrounding tissues instead of flowing into the vein. It can lead to tissue damage and compromised circulation. Stopping the infusion is the initial priority to prevent further infiltration and minimize potential harm to the client. A. Applying a warm compress may be appropriate to promote comfort and circulation in some cases, but it should be done after stopping the infusion and assessing the severity of the infiltration. B. Documenting the infiltration is necessary for accurate record-keeping and to communicate the occurrence to the healthcare team. However, it is not the first immediate action required in this situation. D. Elevating the arm can help reduce swelling and promote venous return. It can be done after stopping the infusion, but it is not the first action to address the potential infiltration.