Final answer:
A nurse suspecting phlebitis at an IV site would discontinue the infusion, remove the catheter, apply a warm compress, re-evaluate for a new IV line, and notify the physician if necessary.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a nurse suspects that an IV site is causing phlebitis, they would take several steps to address the issue immediately as part of proper clinical care. The nurse would first assess the IV site for symptoms such as pain, swelling, redness, or warmth. If phlebitis is suspected, the nurse would then follow protocol, which typically includes promptly discontinuing the IV infusion, removing the IV catheter, applying a warm compress to the area to relieve discomfort and prevent further complications, and then re-evaluating the need for another IV line, potentially in an alternative site. Furthermore, the nurse would document the occurrence and interventions in the patient's medical record. Depending on the severity of the phlebitis and any additional symptoms, they may also notify the physician to determine if further treatment, such as antibiotics, is necessary, especially if there's any sign of potential progression to a systemic infection.