Intravenous (IV) therapy is one of the most common medical procedures used in hospitals and clinics. Fluids, medications, and nutrition are often delivered this way because the bloodstream provides quick and effective absorption. While IV therapy is routine, errors in placement or monitoring can cause serious complications. One such complication is known as IV infiltration.
For some patients, infiltration results in temporary discomfort. For others, it can cause lasting damage, including nerve injury, scarring, or even the loss of function in the affected area. These outcomes leave many wondering: Is IV infiltration malpractice, and can patients sue in Maryland?
What Is IV Infiltration?
IV infiltration occurs when fluid or medication intended for a vein leaks into the surrounding tissue. This happens when the IV catheter punctures the vein, shifts out of place, or is not secured properly. Symptoms may include swelling, pain, tightness, cool skin around the IV site, and slowed or stopped fluid flow.
Although infiltration can happen with any IV line, the risk is higher with certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs or concentrated antibiotics. If these substances enter tissue rather than the bloodstream, they may cause severe burns, infection, or permanent nerve damage. In extreme cases, patients may require skin grafts, reconstructive surgery, or even amputation.
Many cases of IV infiltration are preventable with proper technique and monitoring according to accepted practices. Careful insertion, regular monitoring, and quick response to patient complaints are all essential steps to ensure IV therapy remains safe.
When Does IV Infiltration Become Malpractice?
Not every case of infiltration indicates negligence. Some patients have fragile veins or conditions that make IV therapy more difficult. However, the question often arises: Is IV infiltration malpractice? It may be considered malpractice if the provider failed to act with reasonable care, such as by:
- Placing the IV incorrectly or in an unsuitable vein;
- Failing to monitor the site at regular intervals;
- Ignoring obvious signs of infiltration, such as swelling, redness, or complaints of pain;
- Continuing to infuse fluids despite evidence of leakage; and
- Using high-risk medications in a peripheral IV without proper precautions.
In Maryland, malpractice occurs when a provider’s actions fall below the accepted medical standard of care, and that failure causes measurable harm. If infiltration results in significant injury that could have been avoided with proper attention, patients may have grounds for an IV infiltration lawsuit.
Can You Sue for IV Infiltration?
In Maryland, you may file a malpractice claim if you can prove:
- Negligence. The provider failed to act as a reasonably competent professional would have in the same situation.
- Causation. The infiltration directly caused your injury.
- Damages. You suffered measurable losses such as medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering.
Maryland law requires malpractice plaintiffs to file a certificate of merit from a qualified medical expert. This certificate confirms that the provider’s care likely fell below accepted standards. Working with an experienced attorney helps meet this requirement and support your claim properly.
Potential Damages in an IV Infiltration Lawsuit
Compensation in an IV infiltration lawsuit may include recovery for:
- Medical bills, including corrective treatment or surgery;
- Lost wages and reduced earning ability;
- Pain and suffering caused by the injury; and
- Permanent disability, scarring, or loss of function.
Infiltration injuries may seem minor at first, but delayed diagnosis or improper treatment can result in long-term harm. Lawsuits aim not only to address financial losses but also to acknowledge the lasting physical and emotional impact of these preventable mistakes.
Preventing IV Infiltration
Patients can play a role in their own care by understanding what IV infiltration is and speaking up about potential warning signs. To reduce risk, providers should:
- Place IV lines with care and confirm proper positioning;
- Inspect the IV site frequently for signs of leakage or swelling;
- Respond quickly to reports of pain, numbness, or burning sensations; and
- Replace IV lines on schedule to avoid complications.
Patients should alert staff immediately if they notice discomfort or changes around the IV site. Prompt action can make the difference between a minor complication and permanent damage.
Why Choose Brockstedt Mandalas Federico?
An IV infiltration lawsuit can be challenging because hospitals often claim infiltration was an unavoidable complication. Success depends on reviewing records, working with medical experts, and showing how negligence caused avoidable harm.
Brockstedt Mandalas Federico has decades of combined experience in complex malpractice litigation. Our attorneys are recognized for trial readiness, strong relationships in the medical community, and clear communication with clients. We fight to hold negligent providers accountable and secure meaningful results for those harmed by medical errors in Maryland.
Speak with a Maryland Medical Malpractice Attorney
If you or a loved one suffered an injury from IV infiltration, you may have grounds for a malpractice claim. These cases are complex and require strict compliance with Maryland’s legal requirements. Speaking with an attorney can help you understand your rights and the strength of your case.
We are committed to helping patients pursue justice when IV infiltration leads to preventable injury. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your options and learn how our experience can protect your future.
Phil Federico is a partner at Brockstedt Mandalas Federico where he helps lead the Mass Tort / Class Action and Environmental Law practices, transitioning into these areas after beginning his career as a medical malpractice litigator.
Phil has led and been involved in historic and groundbreaking litigation with verdicts and settlements exceeding one billion dollars.
Loading...