In late December, the FDA received reports of a patient who had been given an IV solution that was intended for use in training only. Such solutions are often used to replicate an actual IV solution in training demonstrations, but are not meant for use on humans or animals. This week, however, the FDA has reported that nearly 40 patients have been given the training IV solutions with adverse effects like fever, chills, and headaches. There has even been one reported death that could be linked to the misuse of the training solution.
Philly.com recently reported that the increasingly frequent mistake could be the result of a shortage of IV solutions from manufacturers. In addition, those ordering supplies may mistake the training solutions for the real thing and order them accidentally. Those using the product may overlook the fact that the training solutions are marked as such.
The major manufacturer of the training solution, Wallcur, has recalled some of its product in an effort to curb increased harm. In addition, Wallcur and the FDA are working together to ensure that product labeling is clear to those using the product and to inform current medical professionals of the potential harm. The FDA has urged anyone who may be aware of a patient who may have mistakenly received a training IV solution to report that incident to MedWatch.
If you or a loved one was treated with a training IV solution and suffered adverse health effects, you may have a medical malpractice claim. Call the attorneys at Sarno da Costa D’Aniello Maceri LLC at 973-274-5200 to discuss your legal options.
