A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving intravenous fluids. The nurse notes the client's skin around their peripheral IV site is taut and edematous. Which of the following complications is the client experiencing?

Rationale A. Infection: Infection at an IV site usually presents with redness, warmth, pain, and possibly purulent drainage. Taut and edematous skin without these signs is more consistent with fluid leakage rather than infection. B. Phlebitis: Phlebitis involves inflammation of the vein, often causing redness, warmth, swelling, and tenderness along the vein. Taut, edematous skin around the site without vein inflammation points to a different complication. C. Air embolism: An air embolism presents with sudden respiratory distress, hypotension, and chest pain. Localized swelling at the IV site is not a typical manifestation of an air embolism. D. Infiltration: Infiltration occurs when IV fluid leaks into the surrounding tissue, causing swelling, tautness, pallor, and cool skin around the insertion site. This complication matches the observed findings and requires prompt intervention to prevent tissue damage.