When assessing a PIV, what symptom should prompt immediate notification to LIP?

Significant symptoms of infection are critical indicators that warrant immediate attention and notification to the Licensed Independent Practitioner (LIP). When assessing a peripheral intravenous (PIV) line, symptoms such as fever, chills, purulent drainage, or increased warmth and tenderness at the insertion site indicate a potential systemic or localized infection. The presence of these symptoms is serious, as infections can lead to complications such as sepsis, which can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.

In contrast, while slight redness around the site can be a common finding and may not necessarily require immediate intervention, significant symptoms of infection suggest a higher risk for the patient. Changes in the patient’s activity level and uneven temperature could also indicate concerns; however, they are less direct indicators of a critical condition compared to active infection symptoms. Therefore, recognizing and managing significant infection symptoms is essential to ensure patient safety and effective treatment.