Many people presume that medical malpractice is very rare and that one’s chance of being a victim of medical malpractice is extremely remote. It is certainly the case that most health care professionals are conscientious, competent and diligent, however, almost 90,000 people per year die as a result of medical malpractice according to the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences. There are many that believe these estimates radically understate the number of malpractice related fatalities. A common cause of medical malpractice claims are related to improper administration of anesthesia. Admittedly, there is a certain degree of risk anytime a person must be given anesthesia, but sometimes errors by medical professionals result in avoidable injuries or even wrongful death.
There are many types of anesthesia error including giving too much anesthesia, which can cause severe risk of injuries including cardiac arrest, stroke, brain damage or wrongful death. If too little anesthesia is given, the patient may suffer excruciating pain during the procedure. The anesthesiologist is required to monitor a patient’s consciousness during a medical procedure to ensure that a patient does not become conscious and awake during surgery. Those who regain consciousness during a surgical procedure can suffer long-term trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This can be a terrifying experience because the patient is aware and can feel pain but is unable to move or communicate.
General anesthesia is always dangerous because a patient’s vital functions are slowed dramatically. If the anesthesiologist does not exercise reasonable care, the patient can be the victim of an overdose. During a recent six-year period, there were over 2,200 anesthesia related fatalities.
Medical malpractice claims are among the most difficult types of lawsuits. They require expert testimony by physicians familiar with the applicable standard of care. These cases are also complicated by the fact that non-economic damages like pain and suffering and diminished enjoyment of life are capped at $250,000 per year. Because of the high cost and complexity of litigating these cases and the limits on damages, it is essential to retain an experienced medical malpractice law firm that has skill and experience working within these limits and restrictions.
A number of other mistakes may contribute to anesthesia errors including the following:
- Inadequate monitoring
- Substandard intubation
- Improper instructions on discharge
- Dosage Errors
- Excessive duration of administering anesthesia
- Inadequate skill and training
- Improper response to problems or complications
- Malfunctioning medical devices
There are many other situations that can result in serious injury or wrongful death caused by anesthesia. If you or a love one is a victim of medical malpractice stemming from anesthesia, you may have a right to compensation for your injuries. Our Missouri medical malpractice attorneys offer a free case evaluation. We will provide an honest and candid assessment of your legal rights and options.
