Intravenous (IV) therapy is one of the most common medical procedures performed in Florida hospitals. While generally considered safe, IV placement can lead to serious complications if not properly monitored. One of the most dangerous complications is IV extravasation—a condition where the IV fluid leaks into the surrounding tissue rather than entering the vein. In some cases, IV extravasation can result in significant tissue damage, nerve injury, or even permanent disfigurement. When this occurs due to medical negligence, the injured patient may have a valid medical malpractice claim under Florida law.
What Is IV Extravasation?
IV extravasation occurs when a vesicant or irritating solution, such as chemotherapy drugs, antibiotics, or contrast media, leaks from a vein into the surrounding tissue. This differs from IV infiltration, which involves non-vesicant fluids. Extravasation injuries can be extremely painful and may lead to complications such as:
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Tissue necrosis
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Compartment syndrome
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Nerve damage
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Functional loss or scarring
Common Causes of IV Extravasation in Florida Hospitals
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Improper IV Insertion Technique
Failure to insert the IV properly is one of the leading causes of extravasation. If the healthcare provider punctures through the vein or misses it entirely, fluids may immediately begin leaking into surrounding tissue. -
Failure to Monitor the IV Site
Florida nurses and hospital staff are required to regularly monitor IV sites for signs of infiltration or extravasation. Redness, swelling, pain, or a slowing drip rate should prompt immediate action. Neglecting these warning signs can worsen the injury. -
Use of Faulty or Improper Equipment
Sometimes extravasation occurs due to malfunctioning IV pumps, defective catheters, or poor-quality tubing. Using the wrong size needle or failing to secure the IV site can also increase the risk of injury. -
Inadequate Patient Assessment
Patients with fragile veins, such as the elderly, cancer patients, or those with chronic illnesses, require extra care. Failing to account for these risk factors before initiating IV therapy may constitute negligence. -
Improper Use of Vesicant Drugs
Certain medications are inherently dangerous when administered outside the vein. Florida hospitals must follow strict protocols for administering vesicants, including using central lines when appropriate and conducting frequent site checks.
When IV Extravasation Becomes Medical Malpractice
Under Florida medical malpractice law, a patient may have a claim if the injury was caused by a breach in the standard of care. This includes:
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Failure to properly insert or monitor the IV
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Lack of informed consent about the risks involved
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Delay in recognizing or treating extravasation
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Use of unqualified or inadequately trained personnel
To pursue a malpractice claim, Florida law requires pre-suit investigation procedures under Florida Statutes § 766.106 and § 766.203, including a verified written medical expert opinion.
Legal Remedies for Victims of IV Extravasation
If you or a loved one suffered injuries from IV extravasation in a Florida hospital, you may be entitled to compensation for:
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Medical expenses
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Pain and suffering
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Lost wages or earning capacity
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Permanent disfigurement or disability
An experienced Florida medical malpractice attorney can help evaluate the circumstances, consult with medical experts, and guide you through the legal process.
Contact Us
If you believe a preventable IV injury caused serious harm, contact our office for a free consultation. We represent patients across Florida in complex medical malpractice cases involving IV extravasation, tissue damage, and nursing negligence.
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 [email protected] or by text at (305) 929-8935.
