What does extravasation of IV fluids refer to?

Extravasation of IV fluids specifically refers to the process where fluid leaks out of the blood vessels and into the surrounding tissues. This can occur during the administration of intravenous therapy when the IV catheter becomes dislodged or if the vein becomes compromised. When fluid escapes from the vascular system, it can lead to localized swelling and other complications depending on the volume and type of fluid involved. Understanding this process is essential in clinical settings to prevent tissue damage and manage patients effectively when administering intravenous fluids.

The other options describe different physiological processes that do not accurately capture the definition of extravasation. For instance, fluid accumulation in the lungs pertains to conditions like pulmonary edema, while fluid retention in the joints typically relates to inflammatory or systemic conditions. Fluid migration to surrounding tissues is a broader term and does not specifically denote the leakage from blood vessels that characterizes extravasation. Thus, while all involve movement of fluid, only the first option precisely describes the phenomenon of extravasation during IV fluid administration.