When Medical Negligence in Kentucky Leads to IV Errors (Part A)

When you are facing a medical procedure that requires the use of intravenous therapy, known as an IV, you may be at risk for a medication error. IV errors are actually one of the most common types of medical mistakes with regards to medication.

The consequences of an IV error can be serious or even life-threatening. Injuries and illness are both unfortunate outcomes of this form of medical negligence. A Louisville medication error lawyer can work with you to determine who was liable for your IV error. This way, you'll know who to hold liable for compensation with a medication error claim.

Common Causes of IV Errors

There are a variety of factors that can lead to an IV error. Medical negligence when preparing or administering the IV is perhaps one of the most common causes.

Sometimes medications are mixed in the same container and dispensed through the same IV line. If there is an adverse reaction to the different medications, serious consequences could result. A patient could potentially develop toxicity, which is like poison in the body.

There may also be an error in the medication dosage administered through an IV. If patients are not given enough, their condition may not be properly treated or if they are given too much, they could become very ill.

In some cases, an IV error may occur because healthcare staff bypasses important steps in order to quickly administer medication in an emergency situation. If there is a staff shortage, an IV error could also develop. Additionally, when hospital staff members become stressed or fatigued, they are more prone to mistakes that lead to injuries or illness.

Since your life is at stake, healthcare professionals are held to a high standard when treating you. And because many IV errors are preventable and are a result of medical negligence, you may be able to hold the healthcare organization liable for your injuries.

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