IV therapy is routine in pediatric hospitals, NICUs, PICUs, and emergency rooms throughout Florida. But when an IV is inserted incorrectly, monitored poorly, or allowed to infiltrate, children—especially infants and toddlers—can suffer severe and permanent injuries. These cases are far more common than most parents realize, and the consequences can include burns, nerve damage, scarring, compartment syndrome, and long-term disability.
If your child suffered an IV infiltration or extravasation injury in a Florida hospital, you may be wondering whether the harm was simply a complication—or if medical negligence is to blame. Here is what Florida parents need to know.
What Is IV Infiltration or Extravasation?
IV Infiltration
When IV fluid leaks out of the vein and into surrounding tissue.
Symptoms may include swelling, discoloration, blistering, or pain at the IV site.
IV Extravasation
A more dangerous form of infiltration involving a vesicant—a drug or fluid that can damage tissue.
This can lead to chemical burns, necrosis, and even amputation if not treated immediately.
Children, especially newborns and premature infants, are at high risk because their veins are fragile and more difficult to visualize.
Why Pediatric IV Infiltration Injuries Are Often Preventable
In pediatric units, IV lines require strict monitoring and clear documentation. Florida hospitals must follow protocols such as:
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Checking IV sites at regular, documented intervals
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Using appropriate catheter size for infants and children
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Securing IVs properly without overly tight taping
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Monitoring for early warning signs—cool skin, swelling, redness, decreased infusion rate
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Stopping infusions immediately at the first sign of trouble
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Ensuring staff are trained on pediatric IV standards and vesicant administration
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Using vein-visualization devices when indicated
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Properly escalating care when symptoms appear
In many cases, pediatric IV infiltration injuries occur because a nurse failed to check the line frequently enough or ignored early warning signs.
Common Injuries in Florida Pediatric IV Infiltration Cases
IV infiltration and extravasation injuries in children can lead to:
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Severe skin damage or chemical burns
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Nerve damage
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Loss of function or reduced mobility in the affected limb
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Infection or sepsis
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Permanent scarring or deformity
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Compartment syndrome
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Need for surgical debridement or skin grafting
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Amputation (in the most extreme cases)
Because children’s bodies are still developing, these injuries can have lifelong consequences, including requiring additional surgeries as they grow.
When IV Infiltration Becomes Medical Malpractice in Florida
An IV infiltration injury may be considered malpractice when:
1. Staff Failed to Properly Monitor the IV
Most pediatric IV infiltration injuries are due to inadequate or delayed monitoring.
2. The Wrong Needle or Catheter Size Was Used
Improper equipment selection for infants or toddlers is a deviation from pediatric nursing standards.
3. A Vesicant Drug Was Administered Improperly
Vesicants require special protocols, sometimes including central-line placement.
4. Early Symptoms Were Ignored
If swelling, redness, or changes in skin temperature were present but staff did nothing, it may be negligence.
5. The Hospital Failed to Train Staff or Maintain Protocols
Hospitals can be liable for systemic failures and unsafe staffing practices.
Your Legal Rights Under Florida Law
Pediatric IV infiltration claims fall under Chapter 766—Florida’s medical malpractice statutes, which include:
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Pre-suit notice requirements
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Mandatory expert affidavits
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A 90-day investigation period
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Strict deadlines for filing suit
Because evidence can disappear quickly (notes, photos, medication orders, infusion pump data), it is important to consult counsel early.
What Damages Can Parents Recover?
Florida parents may be able to recover compensation for:
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Medical treatment and future care
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Surgeries, rehabilitation, and therapy
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Permanent scarring or disfigurement
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Pain and suffering
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Disability or loss of function
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Emotional distress
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Future medical expenses into adulthood
If the injury results from gross negligence, punitive damages may also be available.
How a Florida Medical Malpractice Attorney Can Help
An experienced attorney can:
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Obtain medical records and expert review
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Analyze nursing documentation and infusion-pump data
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Determine whether hospital protocols were violated
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Calculate lifelong damages for a child’s injury
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Handle all pre-suit and litigation requirements under Florida law
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Negotiate with insurers and hold negligent providers accountable
Pediatric IV infiltration cases require careful medical and legal evaluation. Hospitals often claim these injuries were unavoidable—when in reality, most are entirely preventable with proper care.
Was Your Child Injured by an IV Infiltration in a Florida Hospital?
If your child suffered an IV infiltration or extravasation injury at a Florida hospital, pediatric unit, NICU, PICU, or emergency room, you may have the right to pursue a medical malpractice claim.
Prompt action can help protect your child’s rights and ensure they receive the care and compensation they deserve.
Have you or someone you know been injured as a result of an IV infiltration or extravasation injury? 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.
