Medical malpractice differs from other forms of personal injury law in that it tends to involve highly complex matters that require lawyers well-versed in the realm of medicine and a canny ability to navigate the often opaque corridors of the healthcare industry as a whole. Aside from the legal component, what constitutes medical negligence, and how can you tell if you have been a victim of one of the most common causes of death in the United States after heart disease and cancer? This article will walk you through some of the most prevalent causes and hopefully provide you with the information you need to take the next steps.
Medication Errors
Incorrect medication administration can have serious consequences and even possibly death if dosages are wrong or drug interactions are not taken into account. In fact, according to this Atlanta medical malpractice attorney, the repercussions of such errors can be life-changing for you or your family, particularly when you consider the fact that over half of Americans rely on some form of medication or another. Clear communication between healthcare providers and patients, as well as double-checking medication orders, is essential to avoid these errors, but if you do find yourself on the wrong end of an error, you must first ensure your health and then quickly contact a lawyer who can assist you in obtaining the compensation you may require to meet the inevitable medical expenses that are soon to come your way.
Misdiagnosis
Incorrect diagnosis represents a significant portion of medical malpractice cases worldwide. This can occur when doctors overlook specific symptoms, either from gross negligence or a lapse in judgment. Misdiagnosis can take many forms, from failing to order necessary tests required for your condition to misinterpreting results, leading to prolonged pain and discomfort. This can have severe consequences, including worsening conditions and decreased chances of recovery. This can come about for lots of reasons, not all due to negligence, but can still have an impact on your life nonetheless.
Surgical Errors
Most people do not look forward to surgery since they are utterly at the mercy of their doctor. While the vast majority of surgeries go without a hitch, some will inevitably go wrong. Such mistakes can manifest in numerous ways, with the most common being:
- Operating on the wrong body part
- Leaving foreign objects inside the patient
- Causing unnecessary injuries during the procedure
Failure to Monitor
Inadequate monitoring, particularly in hospitals, nursing homes, or outpatient clinics, can lead to missed opportunities for timely intervention or treatment adjustment. This can occur due to various factors, such as the lack of staffing and even inadequate training of healthcare professionals. The consequences of insufficient monitoring can be severe, ranging from missed signs of complications to delayed diagnosis or treatment. Patients who are not monitored appropriately may experience worsening conditions, which can lead to more severe complications or even death.
Childbirth Injuries
When expecting a child, ensuring proper care during pregnancy, labor, and delivery is crucial. Failing to do so could lead to catastrophic injuries to both the mother and the baby. These injuries may show as birth injuries, such as cerebral palsy or brachial plexus injuries. Moreover, the mother may experience complications like excessive bleeding or infections, which could further escalate the situation. Therefore, taking all necessary precautions and seeking medical attention whenever necessary to minimize the risk of such injuries is essential.
Medical malpractice encompasses a range of errors and carelessness that can have severe consequences for patients. From misdiagnosis to surgical mistakes, these incidents can lead to worsening conditions, prolonged recovery times, permanent disabilities, or even death in more extreme cases.
