Why does intravenous infusion cause pain?
Apr 01, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Mingxuan
Introduction
1. Puncture-related issues: Pain in the hand at the infusion site should be assessed for potential puncture injury. If the needle has penetrated through the vessel wall, it may cause localized pain.
2. Drug properties: Highly irritating intravenous medications can induce localized pain.
3. Infusion rate: Excessively rapid infusion may lead to fluid extravasation or local phlebitis, resulting in pain.
Intravenous (IV) infusion, also known as large-volume parenteral solution, refers to a large-dose injectable solution administered directly into the vein via drip infusion, with a single dose exceeding 100 mL. So why does IV infusion cause pain? The following explanation addresses this question.
Why Does IV Infusion Cause Pain?
Pain during IV infusion may result from issues related to needle insertion, drug properties, or infusion rate.
1. Needle Insertion Issues: Pain at the infusion site—particularly in the hand—may indicate trauma caused by improper needle placement. If the needle punctures through the vessel wall, localized pain may occur, and fluid may leak into surrounding subcutaneous tissue, causing swelling. In such cases, the needle should be replaced and reinserted. If swelling develops, the infusion site must be changed, and cold compresses applied to the affected area to alleviate symptoms.
2. Drug Properties: Certain IV medications are highly irritating and can induce local pain—for example, potassium chloride injection and mannitol injection. Severe irritation may even lead to phlebitis. If phlebitis develops at the infusion site, the IV line should be promptly relocated to another vein. Localized warm compresses and gentle massage may also help. In cases of severe pain that precludes continued peripheral IV therapy, consideration may be given to switching to a central venous catheter or deep venous catheter to mitigate discomfort.
3. Infusion Rate: Excessively rapid infusion may cause fluid extravasation or localized phlebitis, resulting in pain. Slowing the infusion rate typically alleviates these symptoms.
The above outlines the common causes of pain during IV infusion. We hope this information is helpful to you.
