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Medical malpractice can occur at any point in a patient’s journey, but some areas may be more prone to malpractice than others. This blog will discuss the situations in which medical malpractice most frequently occurs and how patients can avoid being in a position where malpractice can occur.
Inpatient Facilities
The majority of medical malpractice cases arise out of inpatient care settings, such as:
- Hospitals
- Long-term Care Facilities
- Rehabilitation Centers
- Addiction Treatment Facilities
In these settings, patients are under the 24-hour care of a medical staff. Unfortunately, due to the high number of patients and the fatigue that sets in after long hours of work, mistakes can and do happen. Common inpatient malpractice cases include:
- Misdiagnosis and Missed Diagnosis
- Medication or Prescription Errors
- Childbirth Injuries
If you or your loved one is undergoing treatment in an inpatient setting, it is important to be vigilant and report any changes in condition or concerns you may have to a nurse or doctor right away.
Operating Room
Another common setting for medical malpractice is the surgery room. Surgeries are complex procedures that require a great deal of precision and skill. Unfortunately, even the most experienced surgeons can make mistakes, like:
- Anesthesia Errors
- Wrong Patient/Wrong Surgery
- Leaving Surgical Instruments Inside the Body
If you are scheduled for surgery, be sure to ask your surgeon about his or her experience with the particular procedure you are undergoing. In addition, it is important to understand the risks associated with any surgery so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not to proceed.
In The Doctor’s Office
Mistakes can also occur in more routine settings, such as an average doctor’s office. Similar to in a hospital setting, a doctor can prescribe the wrong medication or dosage, fail to order necessary tests, or misdiagnose your condition. To avoid these, always be sure to double check that your doctor has accurately recorded your medical history and that you understand all of the risks and benefits associated with any medication or treatment plan recommended by your physician.
Protecting Your Rights Against Medical Malpractice
While no one wants to think about the possibility of becoming a victim of medical malpractice, it is important to be aware of the situations in which it most commonly occurs. By understanding how and why medical malpractice happens, you can take steps to avoid becoming a victim yourself. If you have been injured by a healthcare professional’s negligence, contact an experienced Boston medical malpractice attorney at Crowe & Harris, LLP who can help you protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve.
If you were injured as a result of medical malpractice, call us today at (617) 404-3417 or fill out our form online for a free consultation.