In this section
Signs of extravasation
Grade 1
Grade 2
Grade 3
Grade 4
No investigations are required
Compromise to the neurovascular status of the limb or suspected compartment syndrome is a surgical emergency and should be immediately referred to Plastic Surgery
Is the drug a vesicant?
Grade 1 and 2
Grade 3 and 4
Extravasation Washout procedure (see section below) Non-physiological pH agents
Vasopressors
Grade 3 or 4 extravasation injury AND any grade if the drug is a vesicant
Staff: Doctor
Monitoring:
Fig 1. Illustration of saline washout procedure
For emergency advice and paediatric or neonatal ICU transfers, see Retrieval Services
Classification of Vesicants
Non-physiological pH
Cytotoxic Drugs
Fluids
Medications
Acidic
Alkaline
Last updated March 2020