A few years ago, researchers at Johns Hopkins University stated that preventable medical errors were the third leading cause of death in the United States. This came as quite a shock to many individuals, but the data does line up with their ascertains. Not only do approximately 250,000 people lose their lives each year due to medical mistakes, but millions of others are also injured. Here, we want to discuss the most common types of medical malpractice that occur.
1. Diagnostic Errors And Mistakes
Diagnostic errors occur in a variety of ways. This can include a failure to diagnose, delayed diagnosis, or misdiagnosis. These problems can occur if a doctor does not take a thorough exam of the patient, fails to order diagnostic testing, does not interpret the results of a diagnostic test correctly, or rushes the treatment.
2. Medication Errors
Medication is at the center of so much of the medical care individuals receive when they go to a hospital or see a doctor. However, it is absolutely crucial for individuals to receive the correct medication for their ailment. If a doctor prescribes the wrong medication or if the wrong dose of the medication administered, this can create significant problems. Medication errors can occur at the physician level, when a nurse administers the med, or when a prescription is sent to the pharmacy.
3. Surgical Errors
Surgical errors should absolutely never occur. These types of mistakes can include a surgeon performing an operation at an incorrect site or performing the wrong type of surgery. Additionally, this can also include leaving surgical instruments inside of a patient or failing to monitor a patient after the surgical procedure is complete.
4. Labor And Delivery Errors
Labor and delivery errors can result in complications for a mother or a child. These types of mistakes can include the misuse of birthing devices, such as forceps or vacuum devices. Additionally, labor and delivery errors can occur if a doctor fails to monitor the vital signs of a mother or patient before, during, or after the delivery.
5. Anesthesia Errors
Patients undergo anesthesia regularly for various types of procedures. Anesthesiologists must ensure that they adjust the medications properly for the patient. Anesthesia mistakes can lead to a patient suffering from brain damage, permanent disabilities, or even death.
6. Failure To Obtain Informed Consent
Patients have the right to have a full disclosure about the procedures they will undergo. Doctors are required to explain these procedures and the treatment, including all benefits and risks of the treatment and procedure. Additionally, doctors should offer alternative forms of treatment if they are available.
7. Communication Errors
There are many moving parts to medical teams, including doctors, nurses, technicians, pharmacists, physical therapists, and more. Anytime there is miscommunication amongst medical professionals, major errors can occur in the patient’s treatment.
8. Infections And Secondary Complications
Hospital-acquired infections significantly increase the risk of serious injury or death inside of a medical facility. The CDC states that approximately 1 out of every 25 patients is discharged from a hospital with at least one infection. Severe infections can lead to life-threatening conditions such as sepsis.
A Los Angeles medical malpractice attorney can help you with your medical malpractice case.
