NCLEX Practice Test

What is an indicative sign of infection due to an IV catheter?

1. Fever

2. Petechia

3. Hypotension

4. Tachycardia

The correct answer is: Fever

Fever is indeed an indicative sign of infection, including those related to an IV catheter. When an infection occurs, the body's immune response often leads to an increase in body temperature as a means to fight off the invading pathogens. This is a common systemic response that can be observed in patients with infections such as phlebitis, cellulitis, or systemic infections related to IV use. Monitoring for fever allows healthcare providers to identify potential infection early and take appropriate action. While other symptoms such as petechiae, hypotension, and tachycardia can also suggest complications or issues related to IV catheter use, they are not as directly indicative of infection. Petechiae may indicate a bleeding disorder or thrombocytopenia rather than infection. Hypotension could suggest shock or dehydration, and tachycardia can be a response to a variety of stressors, not exclusively infections. Hence, fever stands out as a specific and common sign of infection associated with IV catheters.