Which symptom may indicate a pocket site infection associated with a CVC?

Redness of the skin can indicate a pocket site infection associated with a central venous catheter (CVC). When an infection occurs at the site where the catheter is inserted, it usually results in visible changes to the skin such as redness and warmth. This redness may occur due to inflammation resulting from the body's immune response to the infection. Monitoring the insertion site for redness is crucial as early detection can lead to prompt treatment, potentially preventing more serious complications.

Pain during infusion may indicate other problems such as phlebitis or catheter obstruction but is not specifically a sign of a pocket site infection. Swelling of the extremity could arise from various issues, such as venous thrombosis or improper catheter placement, rather than being a definitive sign of infection. Catheter malfunction, while it can signal a range of issues including infection, does not directly indicate a pocket site infection. Instead, it usually refers to issues such as blockage or breakage of the catheter itself. Thus, among these choices, redness is a clear and specific symptom related to a potential infection at the catheter pocket site.