IVs are so common in hospitals that most people don’t give them a second thought. But every now and then, things go wrong. The fluid meant for your veins can leak into the surrounding tissues instead. This is known as infiltration, and it can be dangerous.
What makes IV infiltration harmful? Three risks in particular stand out: nerve damage, burns, and, in extreme cases, amputation.
Why IV Infiltration Occurs
IVs can fail for a few reasons. For instance:
- The IV is administered incorrectly
- The needle slips out of the vein
- The vein gets pierced, becomes irritated, and leaks
- Shifting or sudden movement dislodges the catheter
Often, it’s because the person inserting the IV isn’t skilled enough or is rushing. Hospitals are chronically understaffed. When nurses have too many patients, mistakes become more likely.
The Dangers of IV Infiltration
Let’s break down the three big risks of infiltration:
Nerve Damage
When IV fluid builds up in your tissues, it can put pressure on nearby nerves. This can cause chronic pain, loss of sensation (numbness), or even loss of function. These effects are often temporary, but they can also be permanent.
Imagine not being able to use your hand properly or ending up with a brain injury because of a routine IV. That’s the kind of catastrophic injury infiltration can lead to.
Such injuries can significantly impact your daily activities, work performance, and overall quality of life. In some cases, they may require ongoing physical therapy or surgical intervention.
Burns
Some IV medications can be caustic due to their pH levels. If they leak into your skin, they can cause chemical burns.
In mild cases, patients may experience redness, swelling, and discomfort that resolves over time. However, more serious chemical burns can lead to tissue damage, scarring, and functional impairment.
Treatment for severe burns may involve debridement, skin grafts, and prolonged wound care.
Amputation
In the worst-case scenario, if infiltration isn’t caught and treated quickly, it can lead to compartment syndrome, which is when pressure builds up so much that it cuts off blood flow. No blood flow means tissue damage and eventual death. Sometimes, the only way to save the patient is to amputate.
The impact of amputation on a patient’s life is profound, affecting their mobility, independence, and psychological well-being.
Spotting the Problem
One issue with infiltration is that it isn’t always obvious right away. That said, there are usually signs, which may include:
- Swelling around the IV site
- Pain or a burning sensation
- Coolness or paleness of the skin
- Fluid leaking at the IV site
- Changes in skin color or blanching
If you notice any of these symptoms, alert your care provider immediately.
The Prevention and Treatment of IV Infiltration Injuries
The best prevention for IV infiltration is proper training and care. But as a patient, you can help by:
- Asking questions about the procedure
- Speaking up if something feels off
- Not moving the arm with the IV more than necessary
If infiltration happens, the treatment will depend on how severe it is. In some cases, removing the IV and elevating the limb is enough. Otherwise, you might need medication to counteract the infiltrated drug. In severe cases, surgery might be necessary.
The Legal Implications of IV Infiltration
Even if you avoid amputation, the effects of IV infiltration can endure. Chronic pain, loss of function, and scarring can affect your quality of life and ability to work.
A recent study found that roughly 35%–50% of hospital patients experience some form of catheter failure, which could lead to IV infiltration. That’s a lot of people potentially dealing with long-term consequences from what should be a routine procedure.
IV infiltration isn’t always malpractice. But when it occurs due to negligence, it could be grounds for a medical malpractice case. For this reason, both care providers and patients need to be aware of what’s happening and ready to respond appropriately.
Contact Robles Babaee, Personal Injury Lawyers, or Visit Our Law Firm in Santa Ana for Help Today
If you believe a doctor or medical professional caused your injuries, contact our Santa Ana medical malpractice lawyers for a free consultation. Our legal team is on your side, even if time is not.
Robles Babaee, Personal Injury Lawyers
1851 E 1st St Suite 810, Santa Ana, CA 92705
(714) 263-3700