How is infiltration different from extravasation in vascular access?

Infiltration and extravasation are both complications that can occur during intravenous (IV) therapy, but they involve different mechanisms and substances. Infiltration refers to the inadvertent administration of non-vesicant solutions into the surrounding tissues when the IV cathéter is dislodged or not properly placed within the vein. This means that harmless fluids, such as normal saline or dextrose, leak into the tissue, potentially causing swelling and discomfort but generally not resulting in significant tissue damage.

Extravasation, on the other hand, specifically involves the inadvertent administration of vesicant medications into the surrounding tissue. Vesicants are drugs that can cause severe tissue damage or necrosis if they leak outside the vein. Examples of vesicants include certain chemotherapy agents and some antibiotics. The severity of extravasation can be high due to the potential for serious complications, such as ulceration and necrosis.

This context highlights the critical distinction defined in the correct answer, which emphasizes that infiltration occurs with non-vesicants, while extravasation involves vesicants. Understanding this difference is crucial for healthcare professionals to prevent and manage complications associated with vascular access.