What is the term for inflammation of a vein often caused by trauma?

Phlebitis refers specifically to the inflammation of a vein, which can occur due to various reasons, such as trauma, infection, or the presence of an intravenous catheter. The inflammation can lead to pain, redness, and swelling in the affected area. This condition is particularly relevant in nursing practice when dealing with patients who have venous access devices, as these can be a potential source of phlebitis.

Understanding this condition is crucial for nursing professionals, as they need to monitor for signs and symptoms and manage interventions accordingly to prevent complications. In contrast, thrombosis typically refers to the formation of a blood clot within a blood vessel, while an aneurysm is a localized dilation of a blood vessel due to weakened vessel walls. An embolism involves a blockage caused by material that travels through the bloodstream and lodges in a blood vessel, which is a different mechanism altogether from inflammation.