An IV catheter is a small, flexible tube inserted into a vein to deliver fluids, medications, or blood transfusions. IVs are commonly used in hospitals, but there is a risk of complications, including infection, blood clots, and nerve damage. One of the most serious complications is when an IV is accidentally left in a patient’s arm.
If a hospital leaves an IV in your arm, you may be able to file a medical malpractice lawsuit. To win a medical malpractice case, you must prove that the hospital’s medical professionals failed to meet the accepted standard of care and that you suffered injuries as a result.
In the case of a left-in IV, the accepted standard of care requires medical professionals to check the IV site regularly and remove the IV when it is no longer needed. If a medical professional fails to do this and the IV is left in your arm, they may be negligent.
If you have suffered injuries as a result of a left-in IV, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Table of Contents
Common injuries caused by left-in IVs
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Nerve damage
- Tissue damage
- Amputation
How to file a hospital left IV in arm lawsuit
If you believe that you have suffered a left-in IV injury, you should contact a medical malpractice attorney. An attorney can help you investigate your case and determine if you have a valid claim. If you do have a claim, your attorney will help you file a lawsuit and negotiate a settlement or represent you in court.
FAQs
Q: What is the deadline to file a medical malpractice lawsuit for a left-in IV?
A: The deadline to file a medical malpractice lawsuit varies from state to state. In most states, the deadline is two years from the date of the injury or two years from the date you discovered or should have discovered the injury.
Q: What damages can I recover in a left-in IV lawsuit?
A: If you win a left-in IV lawsuit, you may be able to recover damages for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. The amount of damages you may recover will depend on the severity of your injuries.
Q: What evidence do I need to file a left-in IV lawsuit?
A: To file a left-in IV lawsuit, you will need evidence to prove that the hospital’s medical professionals failed to meet the accepted standard of care and that you suffered injuries as a result. This evidence may include your medical records, expert testimony, and witness testimony.
Q: Do I need to hire an attorney to file a left-in IV lawsuit?
A: It is not required to hire an attorney to file a left-in IV lawsuit, but it is highly recommended. Medical malpractice cases are complex and it is important to have an experienced attorney on your side to help you navigate the legal process.
Q: What are the chances of winning a left-in IV lawsuit?
A: The chances of winning a left-in IV lawsuit will depend on the specific facts of your case. However, if you have strong evidence to prove that the hospital’s medical professionals were negligent and that you suffered injuries as a result, you have a good chance of winning your case.
Q: How long does it take to settle a left-in IV lawsuit?
A: The length of time it takes to settle a left-in IV lawsuit will vary depending on the complexity of the case and the willingness of the parties to negotiate. Some cases may settle within a few months, while others may take years to resolve.
Conclusion
If you have suffered a left-in IV injury, you should contact a medical malpractice attorney to discuss your legal options. You may be able to file a lawsuit against the hospital and recover compensation for your injuries.
