Intravenous (IV) therapy is one of the most common treatments in nursing homes and rehabilitation centers across Florida. While it can deliver essential fluids and medications, IV therapy also poses serious risks—especially for elderly residents. One of the most dangerous complications is IV infiltration, which occurs when IV fluids leak into surrounding tissue. Left undetected or untreated, infiltration can lead to severe tissue damage, nerve injury, infections, and even life-threatening complications.
Why Are Elderly Patients at Higher Risk?
Older adults are uniquely vulnerable to IV infiltration injuries for several reasons:
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Fragile veins and skin: Aging skin loses elasticity and becomes thinner, making veins more prone to puncture or rupture.
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Reduced sensation: Many elderly patients have neuropathy or decreased pain sensitivity, so they may not feel early signs of infiltration.
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Cognitive impairment: Dementia and other conditions can prevent residents from reporting pain or discomfort.
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Limited mobility: Patients who are immobile are less able to notice or respond to swelling or leaking around the IV site.
These risk factors mean staff in Florida nursing homes and rehabilitation centers must exercise heightened care and vigilance when administering IV therapy.
Signs and Symptoms of IV Infiltration
Prompt recognition is critical to prevent permanent injury. Warning signs include:
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Swelling near the IV site
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Skin that feels cool, tight, or firm
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Blanching or discoloration
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Pain or discomfort (when the patient can report it)
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Leaking fluid around the insertion site
Failure to monitor and respond to these signs can constitute negligence.
Consequences of Negligent IV Care
When nursing home staff fail to properly insert, secure, or monitor IV lines, the consequences can be devastating. Potential complications include:
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Compartment syndrome: Increased pressure in the limb that compromises circulation, sometimes requiring surgical intervention.
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Severe infections: Especially in immunocompromised elderly patients.
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Tissue necrosis: Permanent destruction of skin and underlying tissue.
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Long-term disability: Loss of function in the affected limb.
Such injuries often result in extended hospital stays, additional surgeries, and increased pain and suffering.
Legal Accountability for IV Infiltration Injuries
Under Florida law, nursing homes and rehabilitation centers have a duty of care to residents. This includes:
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Following proper protocols for IV insertion and monitoring
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Documenting observations and interventions
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Responding immediately to signs of infiltration
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Providing appropriate medical treatment when complications arise
When facilities breach this duty, injured residents or their families may have grounds to pursue a medical malpractice or nursing home negligence claim. Compensation may be available for:
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Medical expenses
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Pain and suffering
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Disability or disfigurement
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Costs of additional care
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Wrongful death damages if infiltration contributes to a resident’s death
How an Attorney Can Help
Elderly victims of IV infiltration often cannot advocate for themselves. If you suspect your loved one was harmed by negligent IV care in a Florida nursing home or rehab facility, it is critical to act quickly. An experienced medical malpractice attorney can:
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Investigate medical records and facility policies
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Consult with nursing and medical experts
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Determine whether the standard of care was breached
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Pursue accountability and fair compensation on behalf of your family
No one deserves to suffer preventable harm because of careless IV therapy. Protect your loved one’s rights and dignity by exploring your legal options.
Have you or someone you know been injured as a result of an IV infiltration or extravasation? Contact Florida Hospital and Medical Malpractice Lawyer J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo by dialing his direct number at (786) 272-5841, calling the main office at (305) 461-1095, or Toll Free at 1 (866) 71-CLAIM or email Miami Attorney Gonzalez-Sirgo directly at jp@yourattorneys.com or by text at (305) 929-8935.
