Intravenous (IV) therapy is one of the most routine procedures in Florida hospitals. From delivering medications and fluids to administering anesthesia, IVs are used daily in nearly every hospital setting. Yet, despite their routine nature, IV infiltrations—when medication or fluid leaks into the surrounding tissue instead of the vein—are a surprisingly common cause of patient injury. These injuries can range from mild swelling and discomfort to severe complications like nerve damage, tissue necrosis, or even amputation.
IV Infiltration Injuries: A Widespread Problem
IV infiltration is not rare. National studies estimate that infiltration and extravasation events occur in up to 20–30% of all IV infusions. Florida hospitals, which see millions of patient admissions each year, are no exception. This means thousands of patients may experience some form of IV infiltration annually.
While some infiltrations cause only temporary swelling and pain, others can lead to serious complications—particularly if vesicant medications (drugs known to damage tissue) are involved. Elderly patients, children, and those receiving long-term IV therapy are especially vulnerable.
Why Do IV Infiltration Injuries Happen?
IV infiltrations can occur for many reasons, but in hospital malpractice cases, the focus is often on whether the injury was preventable with proper care. Common causes include:
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Improper insertion technique by nurses or medical staff
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Failure to monitor the IV site for redness, swelling, or pain
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Leaving IVs in place too long without changing sites
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Using inappropriate IV equipment or vein selection
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Ignoring patient complaints of pain or burning at the site
When IV Infiltration Becomes Medical Malpractice in Florida
Not every IV infiltration is medical malpractice. However, when hospital staff fail to meet the standard of care—such as ignoring obvious signs of infiltration or failing to act quickly when a patient reports pain—Florida law may allow the patient to bring a medical malpractice claim.
Under Florida Statutes Chapter 766, patients must first comply with the state’s strict pre-suit requirements, including expert review. If negligence is proven, victims may be entitled to compensation for:
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Medical expenses (including corrective surgeries and wound care)
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Pain and suffering
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Lost wages or future earning capacity
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Long-term disability or scarring
Protecting Patients’ Rights in Florida Hospitals
Patients often trust that IV therapy is safe and routine. But when preventable IV infiltration injuries occur, the results can be life-changing. If you or a loved one suffered complications from an IV injury in a Florida hospital, it is important to consult with an experienced Florida medical malpractice lawyer who understands both the medical and legal aspects of these cases.
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.
