Overview, prevention and management of chemotherapy extravasation

Table 3 Overall summary of guidelines for prevention of chemotherapy extravasation

Continuous education of the medical team about all policies and protocols regarding chemotherapy administration

Classification of chemotherapeutic drugs: Knowledge of characteristics of the drug and compliance to the manufacturer’s recommendations

Appropriate vascular access

In case a central vascular access is not possible, an adequate peripheral vein is used[16]

Veins that are small and/or fragile should be avoided[2,20]

It is not recommended to use veins located at the dorsum of the hand, the antecubital fossa, and the radial and ulnar aspects of forearm[2,20]

Appropriate peripheral arm assessment[1,2,16]

Palpation of the vein

History of previous venipunctures

Available extremities where veins can be punctured

Level of consciousness of the patient

Appropriate equipment selection[42,43]

Use of the smallest size of cannula in the largest available vein

Use of 1.2-1.5 cm long small bore plastic cannula

Use of a clear dressing

Avoiding the use of a butterfly needle

Educating the patient about all risks associated with chemotherapy administration

Devising and updating standards and policies regarding chemotherapy administration at each healthcare center

Documentation and reporting of any extravasation incident