When a medical professional does not provide you with the accepted standard of care and you are injured as a result, you are considered the victim of medical malpractice. Fortunately, severe cases of medical malpractice are rare, but mistakes occur on a daily basis. Many people wonder what types of medical malpractice they are most at risk for. The following is a brief description of the most common forms of medical malpractice in the United States.
1. Misdiagnosis
A missed or delayed diagnosis can have serious consequences. A misdiagnosis can lead to a disease worsening or even to the incorrect prescription medication being administered. In the case of a misdiagnosis, you will have to show that a reasonable doctor in the same practice area would not have made such a mistake.
2. Childbirth Injuries
There are a variety of injuries that can occur due to mistake that occur during childbirth. Some can be severe, such as cerebral palsy. Others may be easily fixed, such as fractures. No childbirth injury caused by mistake is acceptable. If your child was injured during birth due to error, you may be entitled to compensation.
3. Medication Errors
This is one of the most common types of medical errors among people of all ages. A medication error can occur in any one of many ways. Medication may be administered at the wrong dose, the wrong medication may be prescribed, or a harmful interaction may be overlooked.
4. Anesthesia Errors
Anesthesia mistakes do not occur on a regular basis but, when they do, they can be detrimental. When too much anesthesia is given, a patient can die. When too little anesthesia is given, the patient can wake up during surgery and experience extreme pain.
5. Surgical Errors
Different types of surgical errors can occur. The wrong limb may be operated on, organs may be punctured or instruments may be left behind. Surgical errors can be extremely serious, leading to infection and even death.
If you believe that you have been the victim of any type of medical malpractice in Charleston, call our office. A member of our team will review the details of your case and advise you of your options. Call now for assistance.
