Intravenous (IV) therapy is a routine medical procedure used in urgent care centers and ambulatory surgery centers across Florida. However, when IV lines are improperly inserted, monitored, or maintained, patients can suffer serious injuries—including extravasation, infiltration, infection, nerve damage, or even compartment syndrome.
If you or a loved one suffered an IV-related injury at a Florida urgent care clinic or outpatient surgical center, you may have a valid medical malpractice claim. Here's what you need to know to protect your rights.
Common IV Injuries in Outpatient Settings
Urgent care centers and surgery centers typically perform high volumes of procedures and may rely on nurses, paramedics, or medical assistants to start IVs. When these staff members are improperly trained or fail to follow protocol, the following IV-related injuries can occur:
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Infiltration or Extravasation: Fluid or medication leaks into surrounding tissue, causing swelling, tissue necrosis, or even compartment syndrome.
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Nerve Damage: Improper needle placement can injure nerves near the vein.
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Infection or Cellulitis: Poor sterile technique can introduce bacteria, leading to local or systemic infection.
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Air Embolism: Improper line flushing or IV placement can lead to air entering the bloodstream.
Steps to Take After an IV Injury
If you suffered harm from an IV at a Florida urgent care or ambulatory surgery center, take the following steps:
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Prompt treatment can prevent the injury from worsening and may help preserve evidence of the injury. Insist on having the site evaluated by a physician, especially if there is swelling, discoloration, or pain.
2. Document Everything
Take photographs of the IV site and any visible injuries. Save discharge instructions, medical records, and follow-up treatment notes. If possible, obtain the names of the staff involved in your care.
3. Request Your Medical Records
Under Florida law, patients have the right to obtain their medical records. These documents are critical to evaluating whether negligence occurred, especially if proper IV insertion technique or monitoring was not documented.
4. Consult a Florida Medical Malpractice Attorney
IV injuries may not always result from negligence, but when medical professionals fail to meet the standard of care, patients have the right to seek compensation. An experienced Florida malpractice attorney can review your case, consult with medical experts, and determine whether the clinic or surgery center can be held liable.
Can Urgent Care or Surgery Centers Be Held Liable?
Yes. Even though these facilities are outpatient in nature, they still owe patients the same standard of care as hospitals. If a nurse, physician assistant, or staff member fails to properly administer an IV, the clinic or center may be held liable under Florida medical malpractice laws. In some cases, the facility may also be liable for negligent hiring or supervision.
Statute of Limitations for IV Malpractice in Florida
In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a medical malpractice claim is generally two years from the date the patient knew or should have known that an injury occurred due to medical negligence. However, this period may be extended in certain cases—such as when the injury is not immediately discoverable.
Potential Compensation for IV Injuries
Victims of IV-related malpractice in Florida may be entitled to compensation for:
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Medical expenses (past and future)
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Lost wages
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Pain and suffering
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Scarring or disfigurement
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Loss of capacity to enjoy life
Conclusion
IV injuries at Florida urgent care and outpatient surgery centers can have devastating consequences. If you suspect that improper IV administration caused your injury, it’s important to act quickly, preserve evidence, and consult legal counsel. A Florida medical malpractice attorney can help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Need Legal Help After an IV Injury?
Contact our experienced Florida medical malpractice team today for a free consultation. We’re here to hold negligent facilities accountable and help you recover.
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.
