What does infiltration refer to in a medical context?

In a medical context, infiltration specifically refers to the accumulation of fluid in the tissue surrounding an intravenous (IV) site. This can occur when the IV catheter is not properly placed within the vein or if it becomes dislodged, causing the administered fluid to leak into the adjacent tissue instead of the bloodstream. This can lead to local swelling, discomfort, and other complications if not addressed promptly.

While the other options describe different medical conditions or phenomena, they do not accurately capture the specific clinical meaning of infiltration related to IV therapies. Thus, the correct answer highlights the importance of understanding how IV placements can impact patient care and the potential for localized complications.