What is phlebitis in the context of IV therapy?

Phlebitis refers specifically to the inflammation of the vein that occurs due to irritation from an intravenous catheter. This condition can develop for several reasons, including mechanical trauma from the catheter itself or chemical irritation caused by the intravenous fluid being administered. In essence, phlebitis is a localized inflammation that manifests as redness, swelling, warmth, and/or pain along the vein where the IV catheter is placed. Recognizing this condition is crucial in IV therapy because it can lead to more serious complications if not addressed promptly, such as thrombophlebitis, where a clot forms in the inflamed vein.

The other options do not accurately describe phlebitis. An infection at the IV site is a different condition known as cellulitis or local infection, characterized by redness, warmth, swelling, and possibly discharge. Bleeding around the IV site indicates a hematoma or vascular injury and is not synonymous with phlebitis. An allergic reaction to the IV fluid involves the body's immune response to the substance being infused, which is a distinct issue from vein inflammation.