A nurse is caring for a patient receiving peripheral IV therapy with a vesicant medication. The IV catheter is currently placed in the antecubital area, and the patient reports discomfort with arm movement. Which nursing action is the most appropriate to prevent phlebitis and maintain IV site integrity?

A. Using the largest catheter possible to promote adequate flow is incorrect because larger catheters increase the risk of vein trauma and phlebitis, especially with vesicant medications. Catheter size should be appropriate for the vein and type of infusion. B. Placing the IV catheter in an area of frequent flexion is incorrect because sites such as the antecubital fossa or wrist crease are prone to movement, which can increase mechanical irritation, infiltration, or phlebitis, especially with vesicant therapy. Safer sites are areas of minimal flexion with good vein stability. C. Covering the IV site with a non-transparent dressing is incorrect because transparent dressings allow continuous assessment of the IV site for early signs of complications like redness, swelling, or infiltration. Non-transparent dressings obscure visualization and delay detection of phlebitis or extravasation. D. Securing the IV catheter to minimize movement is correct because movement of the catheter within the vein increases the risk of mechanical phlebitis and infiltration, particularly when infusing vesicants. Proper stabilization with securement devices or adhesive dressings reduces friction and trauma, helping maintain IV site integrity and improving patient comfort.