Surgical errors can cause infections and permanent medical complications. Despite advancements in medical technology, surgical mistakes still lead to serious injuries and even death. Common reasons for these errors include:
- Insufficient planning
- Incompetence
- Poor communication among hospital staff
- Fatigue
- Neglect
- Alcohol or drug use by the surgeon
Just because an operation was unsuccessful does not mean that the patient was a victim of medical malpractice. If you suffered an injury or illness due to a health-care worker’s negligence, a personal-injury lawyer can evaluate your case to determine if you may have grounds for a claim.
If the incident happened in Louisiana, contact Morris Bart, LLC. A Lafayette personal injury attorney can handle the legal side of your claim so you can focus on recovery. You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, time off work and other losses.
Call 800-537-8185 today to schedule a free initial consultation. Until then, read on to learn six reasons why doctors make surgical errors:
Insufficient Planning
Every surgical procedure is unique. If a surgeon fails to prepare adequately for an operation, then the patient could suffer dire consequences.
Doctors should know how to respond to potential complications during surgery. Also, nurses and assistants must prepare the necessary equipment to avoid disruptions during the operation.
For a free legal consultation, call 800-537-8185
Incompetence
Some surgeons make errors because they take an unreasonable or incompetent approach to an operation. Many procedures require years of practice and intricate skill. If your surgeon does not have the ability to perform the operation, then he or she may cause serious complications.
Poor Communication
Poor communication among medical staff is a contributing factor to many surgical errors. It can cause the surgeon to operate on the wrong patient or part of the body. This can lead to the removal of healthy organs or amputation of incorrect limbs.
Communication between the patient and the medical staff is also important. Your health-care team should be aware of your medical history and allergies.
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Fatigue
Many surgeons work long hours, which can lead to fatigue. Doctors who are tired are more likely to make simple mistakes such as leaving a surgical item inside a patient.
Neglect
Some surgeons are simply not as careful and attentive as they should be. If the surgeon fails to sterilize equipment prior to a procedure, uses defective equipment, or uses the incorrect equipment or method, then he or she may be guilty of neglect.
Alcohol or Drugs
It may seem shocking that a surgeon would operate while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, but it happens. Many doctors turn to alcohol or drugs to cope with the stress of their profession.
If you were the victim of medical malpractice, you should not have to pay for the resulting medical bills and other losses. Contact a Lafayette personal-injury lawyer from Morris Bart, LLC at 800-537-8185 to schedule a free initial consultation.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.