Most surgical procedures are performed under either local or general anesthesia. Administered right, anesthesia can keep the patient from experiencing pain, thus, making procedures like dental care or surgery possible.
However, like other medical mishaps, anesthesia mistakes are not uncommon. If you are a victim of any of the following anesthesia mistakes, you may hold the healthcare provider or facility in question liable through a medical malpractice claim.
Anesthesia dosage errors
Basically, anesthesia dosage errors can happen when the dosage is too much or too little. Too little anesthesia amounts to overdose while too much anesthesia means an overdose, and either can lead to complications. Anesthesia overdose can lead to complications like organ failure and, in extreme cases, even death. Anesthesia underdose, on the other hand, can result in the patient regaining consciousness before the procedure is through. This can lead to pain and emotional trauma.
Failing to monitor the patient’s response to medication
An anesthetist’s job goes beyond administering anesthesia. These healthcare providers are also responsible for monitoring the patient’s response to anesthesia during the operation. This involves keeping an eye on the patient’s blood pressure and heart rate, blood oxygen levels as well as other vital signs. If they fail to do this, leading to complications, then you may have a medical malpractice claim against them.
Overlooking the standard protocols
Every healthcare provider is required to follow a specific procedure while handling surgery patients. This includes preparing the patient for the surgery, understanding how to respond should the patient regain consciousness before the procedure is through or knowing how to respond to a patient who develops severe contraindications after administering the anesthesia.
Protecting your rights
Anesthesia errors can lead to life-altering injuries. If you develop anesthesia-related injuries or complications that are attributable to the healthcare provider or hospital’s negligence, you deserve justice.