Extravasation (Accidental leaking of drugs)

Extravasation is when a small amount of a drug has accidentally leaked from the vein into the surrounding tissues. Extravasation is very rare; however, if this leakage if left untreated it could lead to serious damage to the skin.

Signs that show that there may be skin damage include an increase in redness, blistering and pain. Therefore, it is important that you follow the advice given to you by the nurse and the instructions on this page.

The nurse will have given you details including the drug name, type of pack to be used and any further treatment.

A heat pack is used to increase the blood supply to the affected skin to help disperse the drug. The heat pack has a soothing effect and can help to ease any pain. There is a risk of burns or scalds if the heat pack is too hot. The skin must be checked often for signs of redness or blistering, if you notice any of these signs please remove the heat pack at once.

A cold pack is used to reduce the blood supply to the affected skin which will help to prevent the leaked drug from spreading. Be careful not to burn your skin. Check your skin often; if the skin appears blotchy, white or blue remove the cold pack straight away.

You should wrap your heat or cold pack in a clean cloth and apply for 30 minutes, 4 times a day for 2 days, to the affected skin. You are advised to keep the affected limb raised up to 15 to 25 centimetres (5 to 10 inches) above the level of your heart for as long as possible for the first 24 hours following the leak.

This lotion may be given to you, by the nurse, to take home to be used to help remove the leaked drug from your skin. You should apply a thin layer to your skin as shown by the nurse. You must do this twice a day for 14 days. If you notice any skin blistering following the application of this lotion, please stop using it and contact the nurses via the AHOU Helpline for advice. The number is at the bottom of this page.

The nurse will give you some pain relief to take home, as you may experience pain or discomfort in the affected skin. You will be advised of how often to take this medication.

Before putting the hot or cold pack on you must check the affected skin each day for the following:

• Has the area changed colour or increased in redness?
• Is the area blistering, peeling or flaking?
• Is the area more uncomfortable?
• Is the pain making it difficult for you to exercise your arm or hand?

If you answer yes to any of the questions in the checklist above or if you have any other concerns then please contact the AHOU Helpline. The number is at the bottom of this page.

If necessary, the nurse will arrange a follow-up appointment for you so that the injury site can be assessed.

In the next few weeks a nurse may contact you by telephone to ask if you have any concerns about the skin where the extravasation happened.

AHOU Helpline

Tel: 0300 422 3444

This helpline is available 24 hours a day.