IV infiltration and extravasation injuries can cause significant pain, permanent disfigurement, loss of function, or even require surgical intervention. If these injuries occurred due to medical negligence, Florida law allows victims to pursue a medical malpractice claim. One of the most important questions for victims and their families is: What compensation can I recover in an IV infiltration malpractice case in Florida?
Below is a breakdown of the types of damages available in these cases under Florida law.
1. Economic Damages
Economic damages are the measurable financial losses caused by the injury. In an IV infiltration malpractice case, these may include:
Medical Expenses
Victims can recover the cost of past, current, and future medical treatment related to the IV injury, including:
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Emergency room visits
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Hospital stays
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Plastic or reconstructive surgery
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Skin grafts
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Occupational or physical therapy
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Pain management and medications
Lost Wages
If the injury caused you to miss work, you can seek compensation for:
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Past lost income
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Future loss of earning capacity, especially if the injury impairs your ability to return to your prior employment
Out-of-Pocket Expenses
This includes costs for transportation to medical appointments, medical supplies, and home modifications if the injury caused a disability.
2. Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages compensate victims for the intangible effects of an IV infiltration injury. Florida law allows recovery for:
Pain and Suffering
These damages cover the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury, including:
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Chronic pain
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Disfigurement or scarring
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Anxiety, depression, and mental anguish
Loss of Enjoyment of Life
If the injury impacts your ability to participate in hobbies, social activities, or daily living, you may be entitled to damages for loss of enjoyment of life.
Loss of Consortium
A spouse may also have a claim for the loss of companionship, affection, and support resulting from the injury.
3. Punitive Damages (Rare but Possible)
Punitive damages are not typically awarded in medical malpractice cases unless the conduct was intentional or grossly negligent. However, if evidence shows that medical staff knowingly disregarded standard safety protocols—such as ignoring signs of infiltration or failing to monitor a high-risk IV site—this claim might be viable.
How Are Damages Proven in IV Infiltration Cases?
Proving damages requires:
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Expert medical testimony
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Medical records documenting the progression of the injury
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Employment and income records
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Testimony from family, friends, and the victim regarding the impact on daily life
An experienced Florida medical malpractice attorney can work with vocational experts, life care planners, and economists to quantify future losses accurately.
Conclusion
IV infiltration injuries caused by negligence can be physically, emotionally, and financially devastating. Florida law provides a path for victims to seek full and fair compensation for both economic and non-economic losses. If you or a loved one has suffered an IV infiltration injury due to suspected malpractice, speak with a qualified Florida medical malpractice attorney as soon as possible to preserve your rights.
Need Help With an IV Infiltration Malpractice Claim in Florida?
Contact our office today for a free consultation to learn more about your rights and what compensation you may be entitled to under Florida law.
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.
