Treatment for Blisters Around an Intravenous (IV) Line Site

Assessment and Immediate Management

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends removing the peripheral venous catheter immediately if blisters, pain, induration, erythema, or any exudate is present at the insertion site 1, 2
Submit any exudate from the insertion site for Gram staining and culture, particularly in immunocompromised patients 1
Evaluate the extent of tissue damage, as blisters may indicate infiltration or extravasation of IV fluids or medications 2

Clean the area with an appropriate antiseptic (2% chlorhexidine-based preparation preferred, or 70% alcohol) 2
Apply sterile dressing appropriate to the condition of the site, such as sterile gauze dressing for weeping/oozing sites or transparent semi-permeable dressing for dry sites 2
Monitor the site daily for signs of improvement or deterioration 2

Select catheters based on intended purpose and duration of use 2
Avoid steel needles for administration of fluids and medications that might cause tissue necrosis if extravasation occurs 3, 4
For adults, use upper extremity sites rather than lower extremity sites for catheter insertion 5
Replace peripheral venous catheters at least every 72-96 hours in adults 2
Evaluate catheter insertion sites daily through visual inspection if transparent dressing is used or by palpation if opaque dressing is used 5

Do not delay removal of the catheter if complications are suspected 1
Avoid placing new catheters in the same area where blisters or other complications have occurred 5
Do not routinely apply prophylactic topical antimicrobial or antiseptic ointment to insertion sites of peripheral venous catheters 2
Do not submerge the affected area in water until healing is complete 2