Medical malpractice is becoming more common, or at least more frequently reported, throughout the United States. Malpractice is an act of negligence by a health care provider in which treatment protocols fall below the standard levels, resulting in complications, injury, illness or even death.
Common types of medical malpractice involve incorrect or missed diagnoses, but medication errors and mistakes during childbirth are also common today in the United States. Negligence by nurses, doctors and other medical providers is a growing concern nationwide, especially those cases that go unreported or overlooked.
Most Common Types of Medical Malpractice
Misdiagnosis and delayed diagnosis are the most prevalent types of malpractice today. These events occur when a medical professional misses the true cause of an injury or illness and treats the patient for something different. Often the victims of misdiagnosis and delayed diagnosis can go weeks or months without proper treatment and may potentially be harmed by receiving treatment for the wrong illness.
Childbirth injuries often result from medical negligence. Sometimes the practitioner fails to identify birth defects or diseases that are potentially fatal to the fetus. During childbirth, problems may arise when medical staff members fail to anticipate complications. Any incompetent use of tools by medical staff also is considered malpractice. This is frequently seen in connection with implements (suction devices or forceps) used to expedite birth.
Errors sometimes happen when a patient is given the wrong medication or an improper dosage. In other cases, doctors may prescribe medication “off-label,” for a condition outside the drug’s recommended use.
Anesthesia errors can occur if an anesthesiologist administers treatment at the wrong time or in the wrong way. Sometimes complications arise due to using defective equipment or improperly inserted IV lines.
Surgery errors occur inside the operating room during in- or out-patient procedures. The surgeon may be at fault for being too hasty or distracted while administering the operation, or the staff may fail to properly give post-op care.
What to do if You Have been a Victim of Medical Malpractice
In many cases, victims of medical malpractice do not know their legal rights regarding lawsuits, or they may be incapacitated and unable to advocate for justice. The most effective way to ensure that you receive a fair resolution to your claim is to enlist the assistance of an experienced medical malpractice lawyer. An attorney is uniquely equipped with crucial legal knowledge that can expedite the process, ensuring that the injured party receives the care and compensation necessary to regain his or her health and independence.
If you believe that you or someone in your family has been the victim of a medical treatment error, contact Montgomery Dowdle Law Offices today. Their experienced, compassionate legal staff can help you through the complex process and ensure that you receive appropriate compensation for damages related to medical malpractice.