Preventable medical mistakes are the third leading cause of death in the United States, according to researchers at Johns Hopkins. Unfortunately, thousands of people are injured or killed each year due to the careless or negligent actions of medical professionals. Here, we want to discuss five signs that your loved one may have been the victim of medical malpractice.
Misdiagnosis or Failure to Diagnose
Receiving medical care as soon as possible for an injury or ailment is crucial to avoid a worsening of the condition. Early detection and a correct diagnosis are crucial for the recovery process. Unfortunately, when a doctor or other health care professional fails to recognize the signs of a serious issue, or if they misdiagnose what is happening, this could constitute medical malpractice. A failure to diagnose or a misdiagnosis could be the result of a physician error, misjudgment, a lack of training, or ignoring obvious signs and symptoms.
Improper Medication or Dosage
There are serious health risks to giving patients the wrong medication or the wrong dosage of the correct medication. When a patient is given a prescription, a doctor needs to know everything about that patient, including pre-existing conditions and their history with medications. If a doctor fails to do their due diligence before prescribing a medication, serious illnesses and complications can arise. Additionally, if a miscommunication between a doctor, nurse, or pharmacist occurs, a patient could end up with the wrong medication or the wrong dosage.
Lack of Informed Consent
Most medical procedures and treatments carry a certain amount of risk. In most situations, doctors are required to explain to their patients the benefits and risks of the procedure. They should also inform them of any other possible treatments for their injury or illness. When doctors follow these procedures, they are able to gain informed consent. Failing to do so could constitute medical malpractice.
Your Doctor Admits to Making a Mistake
Perhaps the clearest sign that medical malpractice has occurred is if a doctor or other medical professional admits that they made a mistake. If a doctor admits that they have made an error that caused you harm, such as misdiagnosing you, administering the wrong medication, or operating on the wrong body part, you should speak to an attorney immediately. However, it is important to remember that most medical professionals will never admit fault outright.
A Loved One Dies During or After a Medical Procedure
Death is often a risk of many medical procedures and surgeries, but if a loved one dies during a routine procedure, or was in stable condition at the hospital before the procedure, there is a chance that their death could have been the result of medical malpractice.
If you or somebody you care about has been the victim of a mistake made by a medical professional, contact the team at Tiano O’Dell as soon as possible. We have vast experience handling complex personal injury cases, including medical malpractice lawsuits. We will work to obtain full compensation for your losses. When you need a West Virginia medical malpractice attorney, you can contact us for a free consultation online or by call (304) 720-6700.