What is the recommended management for vesicant chemotherapy extravasation?

• A. Stop the infusion and reassess after infusion ends
• B. Stop infusion, aspirate if possible, and notify physician for antidote and treatment
• C. Immediately restart another IV site without reporting
• D. Apply heat and continue

Answer: (B)

Vesicant extravasation is a time‑sensitive injury to tissue, so the first move is to stop the infusion immediately to halt further leakage of the drug into the tissue. If possible, keep the cannula in place and gently aspirate any residual drug from the catheter and surrounding tissue to reduce how much drug remains in contact with cells. After stopping and attempting aspiration, notify the physician right away so an antidote or specific treatment plan can be started promptly (the exact antidote or protocol depends on the agent). Restarting a new IV site without informing a physician, or continuing with heat or the infusion, can worsen tissue damage and delay proper treatment. Knowing that antidotes and specific care vary by vesicant helps keep the response patient‑centered and effective.