Placing an intravenous (IV) catheter is a common medical procedure, but complications can occur when fluids or medications leak into surrounding tissue. IV infiltration may cause swelling, pain, and, in severe cases, nerve damage or permanent injury.
Although not every IV complication results from negligence, preventable mistakes in catheter placement, monitoring, or treatment can cause significant harm. Understanding how IV infiltration occurs can help patients recognize potential complications and determine when legal action may be appropriate.
What Is IV Infiltration?
IV infiltration occurs when a non-vesicant fluid or medication leaks from an IV catheter into the tissue surrounding a vein instead of entering the bloodstream.
Common symptoms include:
- Pain or tenderness
- Tightness around the IV site
- Swelling
- Redness or changes in skin appearance
Symptoms may range from mild discomfort to significant swelling. Prompt recognition and treatment can help reduce the risk of further tissue damage.
What Are Some Common Complications of IV Infiltration?
In many situations, the symptoms of IV infiltration will go away as the body absorbs the misplaced fluid. However, in severe cases, the fluid can produce the following complications.
Compartment Syndrome
Compartment syndrome occurs when pressure cuts off circulation to a body part. Deprived of blood, the cells die, resulting in necrosis and gangrene.
IV infiltration can cause compartment syndrome when the pressure of the fluid delivered to the tissues causes swelling that can squeeze blood vessels. When blood cannot pass through the collapsed blood vessels, the affected cells can die.
Severe compartment syndrome requires emergency treatment, which may include surgery to relieve pressure and restore circulation. Without timely treatment, prolonged loss of blood flow can cause permanent tissue damage and, in extreme cases, require amputation.
Nerve Damage
Medications and other chemicals delivered via IV catheter can damage nerve cells. The swollen tissue can also compress nerves.
Damaged or compressed nerves may not transmit signals properly, causing numbness, tingling, weakness, or persistent pain. Severe nerve injuries can sometimes result in lasting loss of movement or sensation.
Chemical Burns
Some chemicals delivered by IV can damage or irritate tissues. These substances are called vesicants, and this type of IV infiltration is called extravasation.
IV extravasation can cause the following symptoms:
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Blisters
- Discoloration
- Ulceration
These symptoms are similar to those caused by chemical burns.
What Causes IV Infiltration?
IV infiltration and extravasation occur when fluids or medications leak into surrounding tissues instead of entering the bloodstream. This can happen when a catheter is improperly inserted, becomes dislodged, or moves because it was not adequately secured.
A catheter may also puncture a vein or allow fluid to leak despite initially being placed correctly. These complications can occur even when appropriate medical care is provided.
When Is a Hospital or Healthcare Professional Liable for IV Infiltration Injuries?
Under Indiana law, a healthcare provider may be liable when care falls below the applicable professional standard and causes injury. IV infiltration alone does not establish malpractice.
Potential examples of medical malpractice involving IV care include:
- Improper catheter placement or securement
- Inadequate staff training or supervision
- Administering the wrong medication
- Failing to monitor the IV site
- Ignoring patient complaints or delaying treatment
Medical records, witness statements, and expert testimony may help establish whether negligent care caused the injury.
Contact the Indianapolis Medical Malpractice Attorneys at Wilson Kehoe Winingham Injury Lawyers for Help Today
An IV infiltration injury can leave patients facing unexpected medical treatment, prolonged recovery, and lasting complications. When these injuries result from preventable medical errors, patients may have grounds to seek compensation for the harm they have suffered.
Wilson Kehoe Winingham Injury Lawyers helps individuals in Indianapolis understand their rights after suspected medical negligence. Whether your concerns involve improper IV placement, inadequate monitoring, or delayed treatment, our Indianapolis medical malpractice lawyers can assess what happened and explain the options available under Indiana law.
Contact us today to discuss your injury and find out whether you may have a medical malpractice claim.