While medical errors are common these days, not every situation may constitute a malpractice case. Medical malpractice generally happens when a healthcare professional harms a patient. These cases can have devastating consequences but they can be prevented with the help of an experienced California medical malpractice attorney. A personal injury attorney can determine who is responsible for the malpractice and ensure other patients are not exposed to potential harm.
Misdiagnosis
This is one of the most common causes of medical error. When health care professionals fail to diagnose or misdiagnose a condition, the patient may not receive adequate treatment and may be exposed to serious harm. Medical malpractice is one of the leading causes of death across the nation. The most important factor to consider in such cases is what went wrong and how the doctor should have dealt with the situation or condition. If a capable doctor under similar circumstances would have proceeded differently, the treating healthcare professional may be held responsible for the mistake.
Childbirth Injuries
A fetus can suffer several injuries that qualify as medical malpractice. Some injuries such as brain injuries, paralysis, and broken bones can be fatal. Although some of these injuries may be caused by something else, there are times when the doctor’s negligence constitutes medical malpractice. Sometimes doctors fail to take the necessary steps to treat a condition during pregnancy, which may cause harm to the fetus and to the mother. Also, there are times when doctors fail to identify birth defects or a serious condition such as HIV and lupus, which can be fatal to the fetus and mother as well.
Medication Errors
This is also a common type of medical malpractice. A common scenario is when a doctor doesn’t prescribe the right medication or fails to identify dangerous drug combinations. Sometimes the wrong medication is administered to the wrong patient. Yet the most common mistake involves the administration of an improper dose at a hospital.
Surgery and Anesthesia Errors
Some surgeons make mistakes in the operating room such as operating on the wrong patient or body part and leaving surgical equipment inside the body. Also, there may be negligence during post-op care, administering the wrong medications, or failing to provide the patient with the right steps to recovery.
Damages
Medical malpractice cases are very complex to handle on your own. You will have to prove several things, including that you or your loved one has sustained injury or damage. Damages can be economic or noneconomic. Economic damages include medical costs, lost wages, and ongoing treatment. Noneconomic damages are related to pain and suffering. If you believe you or a loved one has suffered medical malpractice, contact a California medical malpractice attorney today. Your attorney can handle your malpractice claim and ensure the best outcome of your case. Whether a professional or hospital was irresponsible, we will make sure they are held accountable for their negligent actions.