IV Infiltration Burns Medical Malpractice
The administration of fluids directly into the bloodstream through intravenous (IV) therapy is a commonplace medical procedure utilized in various healthcare settings. IV therapy plays a crucial role in delivering essential fluids, electrolytes and medications to patients, particularly those who are hospitalized or undergoing medical treatments. Typically, patients receive a peripheral IV line, which involves the insertion of a small catheter through the skin into a vein commonly located in the arm or hand. Once in place, the IV line serves as a conduit through which fluids, medications and other therapeutic agents can be efficiently delivered to the patient’s circulatory system.
Despite its widespread use and effectiveness, IV therapy is not without its risks, and complications such as infiltration can occur. Infiltration refers to the unintended infusion of medications or fluids into the surrounding tissue rather than directly into the bloodstream.
IV Infiltration Consenquences
Several factors can contribute to the occurrence of infiltration, including improper placement or insertion of the catheter, inadequate monitoring of the IV site by hospital staff or nurses, or patient movement that dislodges the catheter from its intended position. Since some medications are extremely toxic outside the bloodstream, the harm resulting from IV infiltration can be quite severe and include:
- Second or third-degree burns, some requiring skin grafts
- Blisters or ulceration
- Permanent nerve injury
- Severe scarring
- Impaired use of the extremity
- Amputation
The consequences of infiltration can range from mild discomfort and swelling at the IV site to more serious complications such as tissue damage, infection, and impaired circulation. Prompt recognition and appropriate management of infiltration are essential to minimize adverse outcomes and prevent further harm to the patient. Healthcare providers must remain vigilant in monitoring IV sites for signs of infiltration and take immediate action if complications arise.
Injuries can usually be minimized or completely eliminated simply by proper monitoring and assessment of the IV site. Most hospitals maintain a written protocol which outlines how often the hospital staff and nurses should check IV sites for redness, drainage, swelling, pain, and other signs of infection or burns. Vigilance is particularly important in young children and infants who are unable to verbalize pain and discomfort. For pediatric patients, IV dressings should be removed and checked as often as every 2 hours when particular medications are being administered. When serious injury results from IV infiltration experienced counsel should be engaged to pursue all available legal remedies.
The lawyers at Burnside Law Firm have a history of success representing people injured by IV infiltration caused by the negligent administration and/or monitoring of IV sites after infusion begins. To learn more about filing a claim for such an injury, please contact a lawyer at the law firm of Burnside Law Firm LLP for a free consultation.
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