Where should the needle be placed for venous infiltration?

Placing the needle above the infiltration site is the correct approach because it allows for a proper flow of fluids and medications into the bloodstream. Infiltration occurs when intravenous (IV) fluid leaks into the surrounding tissue, which can happen if the vein is punctured or if the catheter becomes dislodged. By inserting the needle above the infiltration site, you ensure that the needle is positioned in a functional portion of the vein that has not been affected by the infiltration. This placement allows for effective administration of the IV therapy, as it directs the infusion toward an area where the blood flow is still competent.

In contrast, placing the needle at, below, or to the side of the infiltration site does not adequately address the issue. Positioning the needle at the infiltration site could exacerbate the problem, as it may also lead to infiltration if the vein is compromised. Placing it below runs the risk of further aggravating any existing injury to the vein, and to the side could also be ineffective if the flashback of blood is not observed, which indicates that the IV is not placed correctly within a functioning vein.