If a client receiving Doxorubicin reports pain and edema at the IV site, what is the most important nursing intervention?

In the context of a client receiving Doxorubicin, the most important nursing intervention when a patient reports pain and edema at the IV site is to discontinue the IV fluids. Doxorubicin is a chemotherapeutic agent that can cause significant local tissue damage if extravasated, which means it has leaked out of the vein into the surrounding tissue.

Discontinuing the IV fluid immediately can help prevent further infiltration and minimize tissue injury. It is crucial to limit the exposure time of the drug to surrounding tissues to avoid complications such as pain, necrosis, or even ulceration. Once the IV is discontinued, further assessment and appropriate interventions, such as applying warm compresses to alleviate discomfort or administering an antidote if necessary, can be implemented based on the situation.

While assessing for erythema is important in evaluating the site, it does not take precedence over stopping the infusion to protect the tissue from the potentially harmful effects of the drug. Similarly, applying warm compresses or administering an antidote are also important, but these actions would only follow the initial step of stopping the IV fluids to safeguard the patient's condition effectively.