Before the pandemic exploded on the world scene, medical mistakes and errors were already a concern. Medical malpractice has traditionally posed a serious problem in the United States, with some industry experts estimating that as many as 250,000 individuals are killed annually due to medical malpractice incidents. A malpractice lawsuit is filed when a medical professional is accused of acting negligently or maliciously during their patient’s treatment. This negligence then led to one or more personal injuries for the patient.
There are many confusing nuances to the COVID situation, whether regarding erroneous test results, treatment options, or the safety and efficacy of the vaccine. Here are some of the more common medical mistakes that tend to occur, whether in or out of a pandemic.
Misdiagnosis: Experts tell us that an erroneous diagnosis is the most common medical error by a long shot. This is partly because some conditions manifest similar symptoms but can also result from negligence, lack of knowledge, or a rushed conclusion. Misdiagnosis can be harmful or even fatal for the patient, as it may result in an inappropriate treatment for the actual problem. If a serious illness or injury is not being treated promptly, further injury or sickness may occur.
Delayed Diagnosis: A medical professional can also deliver a delayed diagnosis. A delay in identifying the condition can prevent an individual from receiving required medical treatment promptly. Like a missed diagnosis, the patient may suffer further injuries or experience more serious complications or symptoms.
Medical Device Implantation Errors: Some medical procedures necessitate a medical implant. But a surgeon who performs any implant procedure incorrectly could be guilty of medical malpractice. Devices implanted in the human body can be dangerous when not placed or used correctly.
Infection: There is a risk of infection associated with virtually every medical procedure, from stitches to surgery. However, if a medical practitioner is guilty of negligence of any kind, then a malpractice claim may be appropriate. Medical mistakes may include failure to follow safety procedures or not cleaning tools adequately, or may be as simple as the doctor not washing his hands. If infection occurs because germs were introduced into an open wound during a procedure, it may be considered negligent.
Medication Errors: Prescription medications are meant for specific uses and assigned to specific individuals. Prescribing the wrong drug, or the wrong dosage of a drug can be harmful or even fatal. Another way malpractice can occur in this area is if the physician prescribes a drug that will have an adverse interaction with another medication the patient is already taking.
Mistakes in Childbirth: Although childbirth is one of the most natural medical processes, there can still be complications. A physician or nurse can find themselves guilty of malpractice by causing injury to the mother or infant via negligence or lack of care.
Other Medical Errors Considered Potential Malpractice
- Not consulting a patient’s medical history and records
- Not monitoring for allergic reactions or drug contraindication
- Prescribing the wrong dose of the medication
- Not properly communicating instructions to a caregiver or nurse
No matter what the cause of your injury, you may deserve compensation if negligence was involved -whether at the hands of a medical practitioner or a drunk driver. For any questions regarding the viability of filing a personal injury lawsuit, call the attorneys at Probinsky & Cole.
We have offices in Sarasota, Brandon, and Orlando, Florida.
