Medical errors are among the leading causes of injury and death in the U.S., often leading to medical malpractice claims. When healthcare providers fail to uphold the standard of care, patients suffer life-altering consequences. Understanding the most common medical mistakes can help patients protect themselves and recognize when legal action may be necessary.
1. Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis
A misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis can result in unnecessary treatments or the failure to treat a serious condition in time. Commonly misdiagnosed conditions include:
- Cancer
- Heart attacks
- Strokes
- Infections
A failure to diagnose or a significant delay in diagnosis can lead to worsening conditions and, in some cases, irreversible harm.
2. Surgical Errors
Mistakes in the operating room can have devastating consequences. Some of the most serious surgical errors include:
- Performing surgery on the wrong site or patient
- Leaving surgical instruments inside the body
- Nerve damage due to improper technique
Surgical errors can lead to long-term complications, requiring additional procedures and extensive recovery periods.
3. Medication Errors
Prescription medication errors occur in hospitals, pharmacies, and even in doctor’s offices. These errors can include:
- Prescribing the wrong medication or dosage
- Administering the incorrect drug
- Failing to recognize harmful drug interactions
Medication errors can result in severe allergic reactions, overdoses, or worsening of an existing condition.
4. Birth Injuries
Mistakes during labor and delivery can cause permanent harm to newborns and mothers. Some of the most common birth injuries include:
- Cerebral palsy due to lack of oxygen
- Brachial plexus injuries from excessive force during delivery
- Failing to perform a necessary C-section in time
Birth injuries often lead to lifelong medical challenges and costly ongoing care.
5. Anesthesia Mistakes
Errors involving anesthesia are particularly dangerous, as they can cause brain damage or death if not properly administered. Common anesthesia mistakes include:
- Failing to monitor vital signs
- Administering too much or too little anesthesia
- Neglecting to review a patient’s medical history for potential complications
6. Failure to Obtain Informed Consent
Patients have the right to make informed decisions about their medical treatment. If a healthcare provider fails to properly inform a patient of the risks associated with a procedure or treatment, it can be considered negligence if complications arise.
What to Do If You Experience a Medical Error
If you or a loved one has suffered due to a medical mistake, take the following steps to protect your rights:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention – Address any complications to prevent further harm.
- Obtain Your Medical Records – Review the details of your treatment to identify potential errors.
- Document Everything – Keep a record of symptoms, treatments, and communications with healthcare providers.
- Consult an Experienced Medical Malpractice Attorney – A legal professional can help determine if you have a valid claim and guide you through the legal process.
When to Take Legal Action
If a medical provider’s negligence resulted in harm, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term disability or rehabilitation costs
Medical malpractice cases require thorough investigation, expert testimonies, and strong legal representation to prove liability. Seeking legal guidance as soon as possible can help ensure the best possible outcome for your case.
For assistance with a medical malpractice claim, contact Warren Chin at ECD Law today to discuss your case.