What is a common symptom of extravasation that might not include pain?

A common symptom of extravasation that might not include pain is coolness at the site of the infusion. When a vesicant or irritant chemotherapy agent escapes into the surrounding tissue rather than going into the bloodstream, it can disrupt local circulation. This disruption can lead to a decrease in blood flow to that area, resulting in a cool feeling upon palpation.

Coolness at the site can be an early indicator of extravasation and may occur without immediate pain, making it an important symptom for healthcare providers to monitor. In contrast, severe swelling and redness typically suggest inflammation and may often be accompanied by pain. Limitless movement does not reflect symptoms of extravasation; in fact, there may be restrictions in movement depending on the severity of the extravasation and the resultant swelling or discomfort.

Recognizing coolness at the site can help clinicians respond quickly to manage extravasation, improving patient outcomes and reducing potential tissue damage.