If you have been hospitalized, chances are that use were administered medicines or nutrients through an IV (an intravenous device to deliver medicines directly into the bloodstream). The popularity of IVs being used with a PICC (a peripherally inserted central catheter) has increased with the ability to move liquid nutrition into the bloodstream as well as chemotherapy. While this may be a helpful and popular way to move medications into the body, it certainly comes with its risks.
For instance, blot clotting could occur which could lead to other complications, such as deep vein thrombosis. According to a University of Michigan Medical School report, doctors should pay close attention to the risks of developing these conditions in a particular patient. Specifically, those who have a history of blood clots or had a surgical procedure during their hospital stay were more at risk. Conversely, patients on a regimen of aspirins or statins had a lower risk.
Additionally, the report suggests that patients should feel empowered to ask questions about IV devices and PICCs being used, including how it will work, how long it will be inserted and what the risks are.
All of this plays into what is expected in regard to using reasonable care when treating a patient. Basically, a physician or nurse must act as a medical professional with similar knowledge and training would in treating a patient. If such care is not used, and a patient is injured as a result, the physician or nurse could be held liable.