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IV Infiltration Lawyers
Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati Malpractice Attorneys for IV Infiltration Cases
IV therapy is a common practice in emergency rooms, hospitals, and doctor’s offices throughout the country, but that doesn’t mean it’s without its risks. One risk in particular is IV infiltration, which occurs when IV fluids fail to enter the bloodstream and accumulate in the surrounding tissues. This can lead to swelling, pain, scarring, and more major complications like nerve damage and tissue death.
If you or a loved one has suffered from an IV infiltration injury due to medical negligence, the Northern Kentucky and Ohio medical malpractice lawyers at TLF: The Medical Injury Law Firm are here to help. We’re experienced in handling a variety of medical negligence claims and are prepared to help hold negligent medical professionals responsible for patient injuries.
Our attorneys understand the devastating impact that IV infiltration injuries can have on your life and we are dedicated to holding responsible parties accountable for their negligence. We have a proven track record of success in handling medical malpractice cases, and we will work tirelessly to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
Schedule a free consultation with our IV infiltration lawyers at TLF by calling us toll-free at (800) 698-4054 or by reaching out online today.
What is IV Infiltration?
IV infiltration occurs when the fluid administered through an intravenous (IV) line leaks into the surrounding tissue instead of entering the bloodstream as intended. IVs are essential medical tools used to deliver fluids, medications, or nutrients directly into a patient’s bloodstream. Normally, an IV system consists of a plastic catheter (also called a cannula), tubing, and a bag or syringe containing the proper fluid. A hollow needle is used to insert the flexible catheter into the patient’s vein and is removed once the catheter is in place.
When functioning correctly, the fluid flows smoothly through the catheter and into the vein, providing the patient with the necessary treatment. However, if the catheter becomes dislodged or the patient’s vein ruptures, the fluid from the IV can accumulate in the tissues surrounding the IV site. This not only prevents the patient from receiving proper treatment, but it can also cause damage to the surrounding tissues, which could result in serious injuries. Identifying and promptly addressing IV infiltration is crucial to prevent further injury and ensure patient safety.
What Causes IV Infiltration?
There are a number of different things that can cause IV fluids to infiltrate into the surrounding tissues, including:
- Catheter displacement or dislodgement
- Vein damage or puncture
- Incorrect needle placement
- High fluid flow rates
- Fragile or collapsed veins
- Prolonged use of the same insertion site
Patient movement can also cause the IV catheter to become dislodged, which is why medical professionals need to secure the catheter as best as possible after insertion. Failing to do so or failing to properly monitor the patient after inserting the IV could be considered medical negligence.
Signs of IV Infiltration
There are plenty of signs that patients and medical professionals can use to identify IV infiltration and treat it before it worsens. Symptoms of IV infiltration include:
- Swelling or puffiness around the insertion site
- Coolness or blanching of the skin
- Pain or discomfort at the insertion site
- Decreased flow of IV fluids
- Leakage of fluid at the insertion site
- Changes in skin color or texture (like redness or hardness)
If you notice any of the signs and symptoms of IV infiltration, contact a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Early intervention can help prevent severe complications as a result of the infiltration.
What Does Infiltration Look Like?
When IV infiltration occurs, there are a number of visible signs that can indicate something is wrong. IV infiltration will cause the area to look swollen, as if it’s holding excess fluid. Fluid may actually begin leaking from the IV site, which could indicate infiltration. Additionally, the skin around the site may experience blanching.
Normally, when the skin is pressed, it turns pale for a few moments and then returns to normal. Skin blanching occurs when the skin remains pale for longer than normal after being pressed. These visual signs could help patients quickly identify IV infiltration before they experience serious injuries or health complications.
What To Do If IV Infiltration Occurs
If you believe you or a loved one is experiencing IV infiltration, contact a medical professional as soon as possible and have them address the infiltration. Never remove your IV cannula on your own. A medical professional will know how to remove the IV cannula properly and will be able to reduce the risk of infection, excessive bleeding, or other injuries.
Most likely, they will discontinue the IV therapy and provide the necessary treatments needed to reduce injury and promote healing. After the IV has been removed, be sure to document your injury by taking pictures of the IV site and surrounding area. Also, be sure to follow any instructions given to you by your medical provider. They may ask you to use a cold or warm compress on the area, depending on the fluid that was in your IV, and will likely ask you to keep the area elevated and clean.
If your symptoms get worse, you develop a fever over 101 degrees Fahrenheit, or you notice thick or dark drainage leaking from the IV site, go to the emergency room as soon as possible. If you begin experiencing new pain or discomfort around the site of the infiltration, contact your physician as soon as you can.
Usually, IV infiltration is a minor problem, but if left unnoticed and untreated, it can cause serious injuries. If you have experienced major complications as a result of IV infiltration, contact a medical malpractice attorney regarding your case. They can help you understand your legal options and provide you with the support you need to seek compensation for your losses.
IV Infiltration Treatment
In order to treat IV infiltration, medical practitioners will normally stop the IV therapy and document the injuries. They will also apply a cold or warm compress to the area, depending on the infiltrating fluid, and elevate the site above the heart. This will help reduce swelling and pain.
In some situations, medical professionals may use a specific medication to help counteract the negative effects of the infiltrating fluid. This can be different for different kinds of IV fluids. Depending on how that medication needs to be administered, medical professionals may leave the IV cannula in the infiltrated site or remove it soon after discovering the infiltration.
Long-Term Repercussions of Infiltrated IV
In some cases, IV infiltration is detected and treated early, preventing the patient from suffering permanent damage. Unfortunately, this is not the case for all victims of IV infiltration. Some of the long-term effects of IV infiltration include:
- Nerve damage
- Muscle damage
- Tissue death
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Skin discoloration
Is IV Infiltration Malpractice?
Yes, in some situations, IV infiltration is medical malpractice. However, this is not always the case. Medical malpractice occurs when a patient experiences injuries as a result of medical negligence. If it can be proven that the healthcare provider failed to adhere to accepted medical standards, which resulted in IV infiltration and related injuries, it may be considered malpractice.
If you have suffered from serious personal injuries as a result of IV infiltration, you may be able to file a medical malpractice lawsuit to help you recover compensation for losses such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
It’s important to note that a number of IV infiltration injuries are minor and/or temporary, and may not necessitate legal action. A medical malpractice attorney can evaluate your potential claim and advise you on the best course of action.
How TLF Can Help With Your IV Infiltration Medical Malpractice Claim
If you believe you have grounds to file an IV infiltration lawsuit, you’ve come to the right place. At TLF: The Medical Injury Law Firm, we understand how physically, emotionally, and financially taxing medical mistakes can be on patients. That’s why we fight hard to ensure our clients receive the compensation they deserve. We have extensive experience handling a wide range of medical malpractice cases, and have the knowledge and skills necessary to help lead our clients through the legal process.
Our attorneys will investigate your case, gathering evidence and evaluating medical records in order to establish liability and prove that the healthcare provider breached their duty of care. Our team will guide you through every step of the legal process, providing you with personalized attention and ensuring you are able to make informed decisions regarding your case. We will fiercely advocate on your behalf and seek maximum compensation from the party or parties responsible for your injuries.
IV Infiltration Injury? Call the Kentucky and Ohio Medical Malpractice Lawyers at TLF Today
Medical professionals are held to a high standard for a reason, and when they fail to meet that standard, they can cause patients to suffer from serious injuries. If you’ve experienced an IV infiltration injury as a result of a negligent medical professional, you need a medical malpractice lawyer who can help advocate for your rights.
IV infiltration injuries can have serious consequences, often requiring additional medical treatment and affecting your quality of life. At TLF: The Medical Injury Law Firm, our experienced team of medical malpractice lawyers in Kentucky and Ohio is here to help you pursue justice. We’ll review your potential medical malpractice case and determine your eligibility for a lawsuit. From there, we’ll investigate the circumstances surrounding your injury and provide you with legal support throughout the process.
Don’t let the negligence of others go unchecked. If you or a loved one has suffered an IV infiltration injury, call the IV infiltration lawyers at TLF and schedule a free consultation today. With our compassionate and skilled legal team by your side, you can rest assured that your rights will be protected every step of the way.
Call our Kentucky office at (859) 898-2472, our Ohio office at (513) 643-1689, or toll-free at (800) 698-4054. You can also reach out to us via our website to schedule your free initial consultation today.
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We are happy to offer a free consultation to evaluate your case. If you hire us as your legal counsel, we will represent you on a contingency-fee basis. You will pay no attorneys’ fees unless we recover financial damages.