What is a key characteristic of vesicants?

Vesicants are substances that are capable of causing blistering and significant tissue injury upon contact, particularly when administered intravenously. This characteristic is crucial in understanding the potential risks associated with certain medications or chemicals. When administered improperly or extravasated (leakage into surrounding tissue), vesicants can lead to severe complications, including necrosis or long-term damage to the tissue surrounding the injection site.

In the context of medication administration, recognizing vesicants and taking appropriate precautions is essential for patient safety. This includes proper technique for IV placement and monitoring for signs of infiltration during drug administration. Understanding this defining feature allows healthcare professionals to manage and mitigate the risk of tissue injury effectively.