IV (intravenous) infiltrations occur when the fluid or medication being administered through an IV leaks into the surrounding tissue instead of the vein. This can happen for various reasons, such as the IV catheter becoming dislodged or the vein rupturing. The severity and type of injuries caused by IV infiltrations can vary depending on several factors, including the volume and type of fluid or medication that infiltrates, the duration of the infiltration, and the patient's overall health. Common injuries and complications from IV infiltrations include:
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Swelling and Discomfort: The most immediate and common effect of an IV infiltration is localized swelling, discomfort, or pain around the IV site, as the infiltrated fluid accumulates in the tissue.
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Inflammation: The body's response to the unexpected presence of fluid in the tissue can lead to inflammation, characterized by redness, warmth, and tenderness in the affected area.
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Bruising: As the fluid puts pressure on surrounding blood vessels, it can cause them to leak, leading to bruising around the IV site.
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Tissue Damage: Prolonged infiltration, especially with certain medications or solutions, can lead to tissue damage. Some substances, particularly those that are highly acidic, alkaline, or hypertonic, can cause more severe tissue damage, known as extravasation.
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Infection: Any break in the skin, such as an IV site, can serve as an entry point for bacteria, leading to local or systemic infections.
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Necrosis: In severe cases, particularly with extravasation of vesicant (blister-forming) drugs, the tissue damage can be so extensive that it leads to tissue death (necrosis), which might require surgical intervention to remove the dead tissue.
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Compartment Syndrome: Although rare, a significant infiltration can lead to compartment syndrome, a condition where increased pressure within a closed muscle compartment compromises the circulation and function of the tissues within that space. This is a medical emergency.
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Nerve Damage: If the infiltration occurs near a nerve, the pressure from the swelling or the chemical irritation from the infiltrated substance can cause temporary or permanent nerve damage, leading to numbness, tingling, or weakness.
It's important for healthcare providers to monitor IV sites regularly for signs of infiltration and to respond promptly if infiltration is suspected to minimize complications and injuries.
You can reach IV Infiltration Injury 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 Attorney Gonzalez-Sirgo directly at [email protected] or by text at (305) 929-8935.
