IV therapy is one of the most common medical procedures in hospitals, emergency rooms, and outpatient settings across Florida. While often routine, IV placement is not risk-free. When an IV infiltrates—meaning fluids leak out of the vein into surrounding tissue—the results can be far more serious than temporary swelling or bruising.
In severe cases, an IV infiltration or extravasation injury can lead to permanent nerve damage, chronic pain, and loss of function. For Florida patients, understanding the medical and legal implications is critical.
What Is an IV Infiltration or Extravasation?
An IV infiltration occurs when non-vesicant fluids (such as saline) escape the vein and enter nearby tissue.
An IV extravasation involves more dangerous vesicant medications—such as chemotherapy drugs, calcium chloride, or certain antibiotics—that can cause tissue destruction.
Both conditions can place intense pressure on nearby nerves, restrict blood flow, and trigger inflammation that damages nerve fibers.
How IV Infiltration Can Cause Nerve Damage
Nerves running through the arm, hand, or wrist are particularly vulnerable during IV therapy. Nerve injury may result from:
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Excessive pressure from fluid buildup compressing nerves
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Chemical toxicity from leaked medications
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Delayed recognition of infiltration symptoms
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Failure to stop or remove the IV promptly
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Improper IV placement or monitoring
When nerve tissue is deprived of oxygen or exposed to harmful substances, the damage can be irreversible.
Signs and Symptoms of Nerve Damage After an IV Injury
Some symptoms appear immediately, while others worsen over days or weeks. Warning signs include:
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Burning, electric, or stabbing pain near the IV site
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Numbness or tingling in the hand, fingers, or arm
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Weakness or loss of grip strength
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Hypersensitivity to touch
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Skin discoloration, blistering, or ulceration
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Loss of range of motion
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Chronic pain consistent with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
If symptoms persist after the IV is removed, nerve injury should be suspected and evaluated promptly.
Medical Treatment for IV-Related Nerve Damage
Early intervention can make a critical difference. Treatment options may include:
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Immediate cessation and removal of the IV
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Elevation and compression therapy
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Antidote administration (for certain extravasated drugs)
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Imaging studies or nerve conduction testing
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Physical or occupational therapy
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Pain management, including nerve blocks
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Surgical intervention in severe cases
Delays in diagnosis or referral to a specialist often worsen outcomes—and may raise legal concerns.
When Is Nerve Damage After an IV Infiltration Medical Malpractice in Florida?
Not every IV injury qualifies as malpractice. However, under Florida law, a valid medical malpractice claim may exist if:
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The IV was improperly placed
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Warning signs were ignored or dismissed
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The IV site was not adequately monitored
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Staff failed to follow hospital protocols
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Treatment was delayed after infiltration was obvious
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The injury resulted in permanent or long-term nerve damage
Hospitals may be liable not only for nurses, but also for systemic failures such as understaffing, inadequate training, or unsafe policies.
Compensation Available in Florida IV Nerve Damage Cases
A successful Florida medical malpractice claim may allow recovery for:
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Past and future medical expenses
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Physical pain and suffering
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Mental anguish and emotional distress
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Permanent impairment or disability
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Loss of earning capacity
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Loss of enjoyment of life
For catastrophic injuries, damages can be substantial—especially when nerve damage affects dominant hands or mobility.
Time Limits Matter: Florida Statute of Limitations
Florida medical malpractice cases are subject to strict deadlines. In most cases:
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Claims must be filed within two years of when the injury was discovered or should have been discovered
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Certain exceptions apply, but delays can permanently bar your claim
Medical records, photographs, and early legal review are essential.
What Florida Patients Should Do If They Suspect Nerve Damage
If you or a loved one experienced nerve symptoms after an IV infiltration:
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Seek immediate medical evaluation
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Document symptoms with photos and notes
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Request and preserve medical records
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Avoid assuming the injury is “normal”
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Speak with a Florida medical malpractice attorney promptly
Speak With a Florida IV Injury Malpractice Lawyer
Nerve damage from an IV infiltration is not just a complication—it may be preventable negligence. Florida patients deserve accountability when routine medical care causes life-altering harm.
An experienced Florida medical malpractice attorney can evaluate whether your injury was avoidable, identify responsible parties, and pursue full compensation on your behalf.
If you have questions about an IV infiltration or extravasation injury, legal guidance early in the process can make all the difference.
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.
