When receiving medical care in a Fort Lauderdale hospital or clinic, most patients expect to benefit from intravenous (IV) therapy without complications. However, IV errors—whether due to improper insertion, medication mistakes, or failure to monitor—can lead to severe injuries and long-term complications. If you or a loved one suffered harm due to IV malpractice in Broward County, you may have grounds for a medical malpractice claim under Florida law.
This article explains what Fort Lauderdale residents need to know about IV malpractice, common injuries, who may be held liable, and how to seek compensation.
What Is IV Malpractice?
IV malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider fails to properly administer or monitor intravenous treatment, resulting in injury to the patient. IV lines are frequently used for hydration, medication delivery, and nutritional support, but if not managed carefully, they can lead to devastating consequences.
Examples of IV malpractice include:
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Improper placement of the IV catheter (e.g., into tissue instead of a vein)
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Failure to recognize and treat IV infiltration or extravasation
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Administering incorrect medications or dosages via IV
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Failure to use aseptic technique, leading to infection
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Leaving the IV in place too long without monitoring
Common IV Malpractice Injuries
Fort Lauderdale patients injured due to IV errors may suffer from:
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Compartment syndrome – dangerous pressure buildup in muscle compartments
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Tissue necrosis – death of surrounding tissue due to extravasated medication
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Permanent nerve damage – from infiltration or improper catheter placement
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Severe infections – including sepsis from unsterile IV practices
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Amputation – in extreme cases where tissue damage becomes irreversible
These injuries often require surgical intervention, long-term rehabilitation, and may lead to permanent disability.
Where Do IV Errors Commonly Occur in Broward County?
IV-related malpractice can happen in any healthcare setting, including:
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Major hospitals like Broward Health Medical Center, Holy Cross Health, and Cleveland Clinic Florida
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Urgent care centers and outpatient surgery centers
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Nursing homes and rehabilitation facilities throughout Broward County
Nurses, physicians, and other staff members may all play a role in the error, and their employers may also be liable under Florida's vicarious liability and negligent supervision laws.
Filing an IV Malpractice Claim in Fort Lauderdale
Under Florida Statutes Chapter 766, patients must follow specific steps to pursue a medical malpractice lawsuit. Key elements include:
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Pre-suit investigation – Before filing, the claimant must conduct a good-faith investigation and obtain a supporting expert affidavit.
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Notice of intent – A notice must be served to each prospective defendant outlining the claim.
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Statute of limitations – Typically 2 years from the date of injury (or when it should have been discovered), but no more than 4 years from the incident, with limited exceptions for fraud or concealment.
Working with an experienced medical malpractice attorney is essential to navigate these procedural hurdles and preserve your rights.
Proving Your IV Malpractice Case
To succeed in an IV malpractice claim in Broward County, a plaintiff must prove:
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A provider-patient relationship existed
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The provider breached the standard of care
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The breach caused the injury
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The injury resulted in damages, such as medical expenses, lost income, or pain and suffering
Expert testimony is usually required to establish the standard of care and causation in IV injury cases.
Potential Compensation for IV Malpractice Victims
If your IV malpractice case is successful, you may recover damages for:
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Past and future medical bills
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Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
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Pain and suffering
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Disfigurement or disability
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Emotional distress
Florida’s medical malpractice damage caps were declared unconstitutional in most wrongful death and personal injury cases, meaning you may be entitled to full compensation based on your losses.
Speak With a Florida Medical Malpractice Attorney
If you or a loved one suffered serious harm from an IV error in Fort Lauderdale or anywhere in Broward County, do not delay. The legal process is complex and time-sensitive. A knowledgeable attorney can help you investigate your case, comply with Florida’s strict pre-suit requirements, and fight for the justice you deserve.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your rights after an IV malpractice injury in Broward County.
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.
