What is a potential unexpected outcome of IV therapy?

The potential unexpected outcome of IV therapy being fluid volume deficiency reflects the reality that administering intravenous fluids does not guarantee that the body will retain all the fluid delivered. There is a possibility of fluid shifts, which can occur due to factors such as the patient's underlying medical conditions, medication interactions, or improper management of the IV. For instance, a patient suffering from heart failure may not be able to handle the additional fluid, potentially leading to fluid volume overload or deficiencies depending on their response to the treatment.

Moreover, while IV therapy is designed to provide hydration and nutrients, if there are complications such as infiltration, phlebitis, or an allergic reaction, the body may not receive the intended volume, resulting in fluid volume deficiency. Monitoring a patient's fluid status is crucial in these scenarios to prevent complications associated with inappropriate fluid management.

In contrast, while weight gain may occur due to fluid retention, it is not necessarily considered an unexpected outcome unless it exceeds normal limits. Higher energy levels are generally perceived as beneficial and expected from adequate hydration and nutrition provided by IV therapy, making them less relevant as outcomes to consider in this context.