Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

What is the greatest concern with phlebitis?

1. Infection at the insertion site

2. Pulmonary emboli

3. Deep vein thrombosis

4. Excessive bleeding

The correct answer is: Pulmonary emboli

The greatest concern with phlebitis relates to the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which can lead to pulmonary emboli. Phlebitis, which is the inflammation of a vein, often occurs due to trauma or irritation at the site of intravenous catheter insertion. This condition can contribute to the formation of blood clots in the affected vein, particularly if the vein is not functioning properly or if blood flow is impeded due to inflammation. When a thrombus forms as a result of phlebitis, there is a risk that it can dislodge and travel to the lungs, resulting in a pulmonary embolism, which is a life-threatening condition. Hence, the potential for deep vein thrombosis and its complications, including pulmonary emboli, makes this the greatest concern associated with phlebitis. In this context, while infection at the insertion site is a valid concern, it does not carry the same level of systemic risk as the complications associated with DVT. Additionally, excessive bleeding is not typically a direct consequence of phlebitis, as it primarily involves venous inflammation rather than disruptions to hemostasis. Therefore, the most significant threat stemming from phlebitis is indeed the possibility of developing D