IV Line Allegedly Caused Severe Nerve Damage
The expert witness claims the appropriate intervention is to remove the needle immediately if the patient complains of an electric shock-type sensation going down his or her hand.
Updated on
Case Overview
This case involves a forty-two-year-old woman who complained of severe shooting pain down her forearm after a nurse placed an IV line in her wrist. The patient continued to complain of persistent pain. She asked the nursing staff to remove the IV, but they did not comply. The patient now suffers permanent damage to the median nerve. The nerve damage has not been resolved with electric stimulation hand therapy.
Questions to the Toxicology expert and their responses
Have you seen this before in your practice and, if so, how can this be avoided?
If a patient complains of an electric shock-type sensation radiating down into his or her hand as the needle is being inserted, the appropriate intervention is to remove the needle immediately. Best practice mandates nurses avoid areas of high-risk nerve injury by using landmarking techniques. The three-inch area above the thumb and the three-inch area on the inner aspect of the wrist should always be avoided since the radial and median nerves can be superficial in these areas.
About the expert
This expert has been in the field of phlebotomy and toxicology for over 40 years. He has also been appointed as an instructor in phlebotomy for nearly a decade, in addition to his practice as a medical technologist.
E-004540
Specialties:
About the author
Michael Talve, CEO
Michael Talve stands at the forefront of legal innovation as the CEO and Managing Director of Expert Institute. Under his leadership, the Expert Institute has established itself as a vital player in the legal technology arena, revolutionizing how lawyers connect with world-class experts and access advanced legal technology. Michael's role involves not only steering the company's strategic direction but also ensuring the delivery of unparalleled intelligence and cutting-edge solutions to legal professionals. His work at Expert Institute has been instrumental in enhancing the capabilities of attorneys in case preparation and execution, making a significant impact on the legal industry's approach to expert consultation and technological integration. Michael's vision and execution have positioned the Expert Institute as a key facilitator in the intersection of law and technology.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Join our newsletter to stay up to date on legal news, insights and product updates from Expert Institute.
Sign up nowFind an expert witness near you
What State is your case in?
Subscribe to our newsletter
Join our newsletter to stay up to date on legal news, insights and product updates from Expert Institute.