Medical malpractice is the term used to describe a scenario in which a hospital, doctor, or other health care provider causes a negligent act or omission, which results in patient injury. An unfavorable patient outcome in itself doesn’t qualify as malpractice; however, there must be negligence of some sort. The following instances are some examples of when malpractice occurs and when a patient might consider seeking retribution.

5 Examples of Medical Malpractice

1. Misdiagnosis

If a doctor fails to diagnose a patient correctly, and it ultimately results in harm to the person, it could be grounds for a lawsuit. This can occur when the doctor mistakenly says the patient has no discernible illness or they diagnose the person with an illness they don’t have. 

2. Surgical or Anesthesia Errors

Errors that occur during surgery or while a patient is under anesthesia can have devastating consequences. Although issues such as complications following surgery may not fall under the umbrella of malpractice, problems such as performing wrong or unnecessary procedures, damaging tissue, or administering incorrect amounts of anesthesia often do.

3. Mistakes With Medications

If a medication is prescribed incorrectly, the doctor may be held accountable. On the other hand, if a patient is administered the wrong type or amount of medication directly, the nurse or hospital responsible for the mistake may be at fault.

4. Failure to Treat

Failure to treat occurs when physicians provide the right diagnosis but still fail to treat the patient properly, and it results in worsening of an existing condition or the development of a new one. A couple of examples might include releasing a patient from care too early or failing to follow up after a procedure.

5. Faulty Medical Products

In addition to health care providers, manufacturers of medical products may also be liable in certain circumstances. If a medical product causes injury, even when used correctly, the company could be held accountable for damages.

If you think you or your family member have experienced medical malpractice, contact Danny E. Darnall, Attorney at Law. Serving Elizabethtown, KY, this skilled attorney has more than 40 years of experience providing legal representation to clients across a broad range of circumstances. In addition to medical suits, Danny Darnall also specializes in workers’ compensation cases, auto accidents, and product liability. To schedule a consultation, send his office a message online or call (270) 769-9179.