What should a nurse monitor closely when administering medication via the intravenous route?

When administering medication via the intravenous route, it is crucial for the nurse to monitor the intravenous site closely for signs of infiltration or phlebitis. Infiltration occurs when the IV fluid or medication leaks into the surrounding tissue instead of remaining within the vein, leading to swelling, discomfort, and potential tissue damage. Phlebitis, on the other hand, refers to inflammation of the vein, which can cause pain, redness, and warmth at the site. Monitoring for these complications is essential to ensure patient safety and the effectiveness of the medication being delivered. Timely identification of infiltration or phlebitis allows for prompt intervention, which can minimize discomfort and prevent further complications.

The other choices, while also important in the overall assessment of patient safety and medication administration, do not address the immediate concerns associated with the intravenous route specifically. Blood pressure and respiratory rate are vital signs that reflect the patient's overall physiological state but monitoring these does not directly pertain to the safety and integrity of the IV administration itself. The medication's expiration date is a factor in medication safety, but it does not relate to the immediate condition of the IV site where medication is being infused.