What is a potential complication of IV infiltration?

IV infiltration occurs when intravenous fluid or medication leaks out of the vein and into the surrounding tissue. Pallor at the site is a potential complication of IV infiltration because when the tissue surrounding the infiltrated IV begins to swell, the vasculature may compress, leading to decreased blood flow and a pale appearance of the skin. This is indicative of reduced circulation in the affected area, which can result from fluid accumulation and pressure changes.

The other options, while they can represent various conditions or complications, are not directly linked to IV infiltration. Increased heart rate may relate to various physiological stressors but is not a direct manifestation of infiltration. A skin rash could suggest an allergic reaction or another dermatological issue unrelated to infiltration. Excessive bruising could indicate trauma or bleeding tendencies but does not specifically correlate with the infiltration process. Therefore, pallor at the site remains the most relevant and indicative sign of potential IV infiltration complications.