What should a nurse do if the IV catheter is leaking at the hub connection?

When faced with a leaking IV catheter at the hub connection, the best course of action is to attempt to tighten the tubing and hub connection. This step is logical because leaks often occur due to loose connections. By tightening the connection, it's possible to restore the integrity of the IV line and prevent further leakage, thereby maintaining the infusion of fluids or medications appropriately.

Tightening the connection is a practical first response that can potentially save time and resources, allowing the IV therapy to continue with minimal disruption. If the leak is due to a faulty connection that cannot be resolved by tightening, then alternative options such as discontinuing the infusion or replacing the catheter may need to be considered as subsequent actions. However, the initial step should focus on correcting the issue at hand.

Choosing to discontinue the IV immediately or applying additional tape may not address the root of the problem and could lead to unnecessary complications or delays in patient care. Removing the catheter and starting anew would only be necessary if attempts to tighten the connection fail, indicating a more significant issue that cannot be resolved at the hub. Thus, trying to tighten the tubing and hub connection is the most effective and efficient first step in managing a leaking IV catheter.