Extravasation Risk Factors - The Site
Once the appropriate cannulation device has been selected, a site for cannulation has to be chosen. This must be a site where the cannula can be inserted easily and fastened securely, observed easily and one which will not come under stress if the patient or administrator moves.
Taking these factors into account, the most appropriate site for location of a cannula is considered to be the forearm. However, it has to be accepted that this is not always going to be an available site for cannulation. The vessels in the dorsum of the hand are probably the next most appropriate location for cannulation.
As a general rule joints and creases should be avoided as these often represent a 'small' anatomical space, with nerves and tendons (often with little 'covering') present.
Extravasation is usually due to leakage around the original puncture site at which the cannula enters the vein.