Final answer:
Complications of IV therapy may include localized and systemic infections, potentially leading to sepsis, shock, and organ failure. These can occur if IV insertion sites are not managed properly or if catheters become contaminated, emphasizing the importance of adherence to sterile procedures and timely intervention.
Step-by-step explanation:
Complications of IV therapy related to infiltration at the IV site, such as those depicted in the Mosby skills video "Troubleshooting Intravenous Infusions," can result in serious clinical outcomes. In Barbara's case, the local redness, warmth, and discomfort suggested a localized infection, which can occur at catheter insertion sites. Left untreated, such infections may progress to more serious systemic conditions like bloodstream infections, which are estimated to cause up to 80,000 cases each year in the US with approximately 20,000 resultant deaths. The introduction of pathogens into the bloodstream can occur via contaminated catheters, leading to nosocomial infections and complications like sepsis, shock, and organ failure, as was ultimately the case for Barbara. When IV therapy sites are not carefully managed, inconsistent with best practices for sterility, serious complications can arise. In the instance of another patient, despite antibacterial therapy being consistent with the susceptibilities of the identified pathogen, the presence of the catheter itself may have acted as a nidus for reinfection. This implies the importance of considering catheter removal if infections persist or recur. In Mark's case, rapid deterioration also signaled severe systemic infection, showcasing how quickly conditions can change and the need for prompt and appropriate treatment strategies.