Most Common Types of Medical Malpractice

Malpractice cases can take many forms. Sometimes patients are injured during the course of their treatment. Sometimes medications are prescribed in irresponsible dosages. Sometimes patients aren’t warned about potentially dangerous side-effects or drug interactions associated with their medications. Statistically speaking, some fields and procedures are more prone to malpractice cases than other. Today we’ll look at a few common culprits of medical malpractice.

Misdiagnosis

In these malpractice cases, a physician typically prescribes a treatment for one ailment, when a patient is actually suffering from an unrelated illness. In some cases, the prescribed treatment can exacerbate the problem and cause further health problems. A delayed diagnosis can also constitute medical malpractice if a physician had enough evidence at their disposal to make a more timely diagnosis that could have prevented additional pain and suffering.

Childbirth Injuries

These can be injuries to the mother, child or both. A doctor might fail to order a Cesarean section in a complicated childbirth. They might compromise the health of the baby by failing to recognize signs of distress. Or, they might fail to diagnose contagious diseases that could pass from mother to child. Pregnancy and childbirth are complex processes that demand a high degree of attention to detail from physicians. In these cases, a doctor’s negligence can put not one, but two people in harm’s way.

Medication Mistakes

We touched on this one earlier. The most common errors involve physicians who prescribe incorrect dosages. Failing to identify dangerous drug interactions or side-effects can also constitute medical malpractice. Take care to double check the dosage on your prescription each and every time you get a refill. If you notice any unexpected changes, call your doctor immediately for clarification.

Anesthesia Mistakes

Did you know that anesthesiologists are some of the most likely medical professionals to face malpractice suits? Incidences of anesthesia malpractice can actually be more dangerous than surgical errors. Keeping a patient safely under anesthesia is a delicate operation that calls for constant vigilance. If an anesthesiologist fails to carefully monitor vital signs or check their patient’s medical history, it could cost them their life.

If you’ve been injured as a result of a doctor’s negligence, you shouldn’t have to resign yourself to pain and suffering. Give us a call today to speak with an attorney, and take the first step towards getting the compensation you deserve.