Name of the Condition

• Leakage of infusion catheter, initial encounter
• Medical term: Catheter Leakage

Summary

• This condition involves the escape of fluids being administered intravenously due to a leak in the infusion catheter, typically noticed during the initial encounter or first identification of the issue.

Causes

• The most common cause is improperly secured or faulty catheters.
• Material degradation or damage during insertion.
• Manufacturing defects.

Risk Factors

• Long-term use of catheters.
• Previous catheter-related complications.
• Inexperienced medical personnel handling the catheter.

Symptoms

• Swelling, redness, or pain at the infusion site.
• Wetness or leakage spotted around the catheter.
• Reduced flow of infused medication or fluids.
• Fever or chills in case of infection.

Diagnosis

• Physical examination of the insertion site.
• Ultrasound or imaging to check catheter placement.
• Fluid leakage tests around the catheter.

Treatment Options

• Immediate replacement or re-securement of the catheter.
• Monitoring for signs of infection due to leakage.
• Antibiotics if an infection is present or suspected.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Prognosis is generally good if detected early with corrective measures quickly implemented.
• Regular follow-ups are crucial to check on catheter function and signs of complications.

Complications

• Infection at the insertion site.
• Inadequate delivery of medication or fluids leading to suboptimal treatment.
• Tissue damage around the insertion site.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Ensure trained personnel insert and manage catheters.
• Regularly check and maintain catheters to prevent degradation.
• Hygiene measures to prevent infection.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Persistent redness, swelling, or pain around the catheter site.
• Unexplained fever or chills.
• Noticing any malfunction in the drug delivery process.

Additional Resources

• CDC's guidelines on catheter use: CDC Catheter Guidelines
• INS Infusion Therapy Standards of Practice for best practices: INS Standards

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the code T82.534A is used specifically for initial encounters of leakage.
• Verify that documentation distinctly indicates leakage and is not erroneously coded as another catheter complication.