What is a common concern when monitoring a patient receiving IV therapy?

Monitoring a patient receiving intravenous (IV) therapy involves being vigilant about various potential complications, one of which is edema. Edema refers to the accumulation of fluid in the interstitial spaces of tissues, which can be a direct result of the administration of IV fluids. When fluid enters the bloodstream, the body may retain more fluid than normal, leading to swelling in the extremities or other areas.

Detecting edema during IV therapy is essential as it can indicate fluid overload, which poses risks such as increased blood pressure, strain on the heart, and potential complications like pulmonary edema. Therefore, regular assessment for signs of edema is a critical part of patient monitoring to ensure that IV therapy is being administered safely and to quickly identify any adverse effects.

Other options, while they may be valid complications in certain contexts, are not as directly associated with the specific concerns that arise during IV therapy monitoring. Increased heart rate can occur for various reasons, but it is not universally indicative of complications related to IV fluids. Weight gain can also occur due to fluid retention, but it is a longer-term indicator and less immediate compared to edema. A skin rash may suggest an allergic reaction or irritation, but it is less common than monitoring for edema specifically related to fluid management.