Peripheral IV infiltration?

I’m worried my IV isn’t in the vein anymore, though I’m pretty sure I’m just thinking about it too much.  I just started IV abx 5 days ago.  I have the eclipse medicine balls that I hook up to my peripheral IV twice a day.  The IV is placed on my forearm, a little more than an inch from my elbow.  I’m scheduled to switch arms every week.  Does all of this sound normal?

What’s making me think the IV is out?  Last night and this morning I noticed it felt different.  My arm is very sore down my arm and up into my shoulder, and it feels like my elbow gets cold whenever I do the medicine or flush with saline. 

What makes me think I’m worrying for nothing?  When I flush the tubing with the heparin, I can taste it almost instantly.  You know how you get that taste in your mouth when IV drugs are administered?  Is that just me?  My whole body hurts more; is that a sign that the medicine is going to the right places?  Could that be from the 4 days or so that the IV was in the vein (if it isn’t anymore)?  Also, I don’t see any swelling around the IV site, or any skin discoloration.  Is rocephin one of those drugs that would be instantly noticeable if it were “leaking” into surrounding tissues?

Can anyone share their experiences with peripheral IVs?  Just let me know if I’m worrying for nothing.  Thanks!

hi ccbrunk, i can help you. I was a RN IV resource for years. first of all, note if there is any signs of redness, increase in swelling by measuring with a tape measure if you cannot notice it by the eye. and note any red streaks up and down the arm from the site of entry for it could indicate mechanical phebitis which is and iflammation of the vein.

if you have a Picc line which is a catheter inserted from your vein in the bend of your arm into the anterior part of your large subclavian vein, and it was newly inserted sometimes there is redness up the site that will last for several days then go away. but if this does not resolve becomes painful, contact your doctor. and note if your temperature is elevated for signs of infection.

If you infuse your medication cold from the fridge it will feel cold at first while infusing. I tell my patients in the past to take the medication out of the fridge for 30 min or a little more to allow it to warm up a bit to prevent that cold feeling

It is normal to taste a metallic or have a funny taste in your mouth with some drugs. many patients experience this and I have as well. I hate that taste lol

I hope this helps and it I can answer any more questions I will be glad too. You can email me directly by clicking the mail button. jackie

Thank you, Mystery! I figured if I had to ask, it wasn't a problem. I'm sure I am just experiencing the normal discomfort that comes with putting antibiotics in your veins. Since you calmed my thoughts I can stop stressing over it.

Thank you so much, Mystery1!!!

hi now speaking as a patient myself, I when getting an IV infusion would feel a cool sensation up my arm. also, when I have gotten a saline flush and MRI contrast I would taste a funny taste.

I have not had to take IV antibiotics yet. I am crossing my fingers. jackie