Which statement about vesicant extravasation signs is true?

• A. Burning and stinging pain are typical; some patients may feel a cooling sensation
• B. Fever and swelling are always present
• C. Pain is never experienced
• D. Itching is the only symptom

Answer: (A)

When vesicant extravasation happens, the most reliable early signs are local sensory and tissue reactions at the IV site. Burning and stinging pain at the site are classic, and some patients may notice a cool or cooling sensation as the drug irritates surrounding tissue and perfusion changes occur. Fever is not a typical sign of extravasation and would point to something else, like infection. Pain is a common symptom, not something that never happens. Itching can occur but is not the only symptom to rely on. So the statement that describes burning and stinging pain with a possible cooling sensation correctly reflects what patients often experience during vesicant extravasation.