IVs are a common method for administering fluids to patients in hospitals and other medical facilities. Peripheral IVs are typically placed under the skin on the hand or forearm. The tube sends salt, sugars, water, and other fluids directly into the bloodstream. However, IV fluids can leak out of the tube and into the skin and surrounding tissues – a condition known as IV infiltration.
IV infiltration is not automatically considered medical malpractice, but it is when a healthcare provider’s negligence causes it. If you have injuries from a poorly placed IV, you may be able to file a medical malpractice lawsuit to pursue financial compensation for your IV infiltration injuries.
Signs and Common Causes of IV Infiltration
IV infiltration is relatively common, with some sources estimating infiltration rates as high as six percent at some hospitals. When IV fluids leak into the surrounding tissue, they can cause several symptoms, including:
- Swelling and redness around the insertion site
- Severe pain or discomfort
- Tightness near the insertion site
- Burning sensation
- Bruising or discoloration
IV infiltration injuries can have serious side effects in some cases. Common causes of IV infiltration include:
- Incorrect catheter size
- Improper administration
- Bad vein selection
- Faulty IV lines and tubes
- Failure to monitor patients
When Is IV Infiltration Considered Medical Malpractice?
IV infiltration can be considered medical malpractice if a medical professional or facility violated the accepted standards of care and injured a patient. For example, if an on-duty nurse fails to regularly check the IV site, and infiltration eventually causes an infection. In this case, the nursing staff could be liable because they were negligent and failed to monitor the patient adequately. The hospital could also be responsible since they are often legally liable for the negligent actions of its employees.
Medical facilities can also be guilty of malpractice if negligent hiring policies caused the injury. For example, if a hospital hired an unqualified nurse who then caused injuries because they incorrectly administered an IV, the medical facility can be found liable.
How a Medical Malpractice Attorney at Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C. Can Help You
The central challenge of a medical malpractice claim is proving that the medical professional violated the accepted standard of care, whether through action or omission. A medical malpractice attorney can perform a thorough investigation to determine if the healthcare provider violated the standard of care. We can assess medical documentation concerning your injuries and negotiate with insurance companies regarding settlements.
Our firm also works with some of the most respected medical experts to testify on the standard of care. When a medical professional’s negligence causes harm, they should be held accountable for their actions. We seek to balance the scales of justice on your behalf.
Contact Our Firm for a Complimentary Consultation
The attorneys of Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C. have been a mainstay in the Chicago legal community since 1982 and have a reputation as fierce advocates for victims of medical malpractice. We have recovered over $2.5 billion for our clients, including a $75 million jury verdict in a medical malpractice case.
We will stand by your side and fight for the financial compensation you need and deserve to move forward with your life. Contact us online or call today for a free case consultation with an IV infiltration lawyer in Chicago.
