What is a major concern associated with phlebitis in patients?

The major concern associated with phlebitis in patients is venous thrombosis. Phlebitis refers to the inflammation of a vein, which can lead to blood clot formation within the affected vein, a condition known as thrombophlebitis. When a clot forms, there is a risk that it can dislodge and travel towards the lungs, potentially resulting in a pulmonary embolism. This makes the management of phlebitis crucial, as it not only involves treating the inflammation but also monitoring for the potential development of thrombosis.

While local infections can occur in conjunction with phlebitis, they are not the primary concern tied directly to the condition itself. Similarly, while pulmonary embolism is indeed a serious outcome of thrombosis, it is the venous thrombosis that is the relevant concern originating from the inflammatory process of phlebitis. The risk of cardiac arrest, though significant in various medical contexts, is not directly linked to phlebitis. The focus should remain on the vascular complications associated with the condition.