Evolve HESI Practice Exam 2025 – All-in-One Resource to Master Your Nursing Exam Success!

Local irritation at the infusion site is a common indicator that may signal the need for further intervention when a patient is receiving IV antibiotics. This symptom can suggest various complications, such as phlebitis or infiltrates, which may require adjustments to the IV administration, such as changing the infusion site or using a different type of IV access. Local irritation can also indicate a potential allergic reaction or sensitivity to the medication, making it crucial to monitor and assess the site closely.

In contrast, fever is a typical response in patients undergoing antibiotic treatment as the body fights infection, and while it can indicate a need for further intervention, it's not as specific as local irritation. Nausea may be an adverse effect of the antibiotics or related to the underlying infection but is not considered a standalone indicator of the need for intervention. Increased anxiety can occur due to various factors but does not necessarily indicate a complication directly related to the IV antibiotic administration.