While anesthesia is a vital part of medical care, it can also be exceptionally dangerous when used improperly. In the most recently published data from the National Library of Medicine, there were more than 17,000 reported anesthetic errors between 2007 and 2014. Certain preexisting conditions, like electrolyte, fluid, and clotting disorders, were highlighted as notable contributing factors. Over this span, there were also 131 reported deaths.
While both the number of reported errors and deaths declined over the study period, it remains clear that misuse of and adverse reactions to anesthesia is a problem.
Anesthesiologists are trained medical professionals and, just like any other doctor, can be held to the same medical malpractice standards. If you suffered an adverse reaction to anesthesia, you may be able to file a claim to secure compensation for your injuries.
If you are planning to take legal action, it’s important to speak with an experienced medical malpractice attorney to discuss your options.
Complications That Arise From Anesthesia Errors
Some common complications from anesthesia include:
- Nerve injuries
- Aspiration pneumonitis
- Awareness during general anesthesia
- Anaphylaxis or allergic reaction
- Hypoxic brain injury
- Stroke
- Embolic event
- Cardiovascular collapse
- Cardiac arrest
Elements You Have To Establish To Pursue a Medical Malpractice Case in Baton Rouge
No matter what severe reaction you suffered due to anesthesia, you may be able to file a medical malpractice claim. As with all medical malpractice cases, there are three key characteristics that must be met:
- A violation of the standard of care. The law states that patients have the right to expect that healthcare professionals will act in line with the set acceptable medical treatment standards. If these standards were not met, then negligence can be claimed.
- Negligence caused the injury. Not only must the standard of care be violated, but the patient must be able to prove that this negligence caused their injuries.
- The injury caused serious damage. The injured patient must be able to prove that the injury caused through negligence resulted in serious hardship, including but not limited to significant medical bills, unusual pain and suffering, loss of income, and disability.
Understanding Your Legal Options After an Anesthesiologist Makes a Mistake
If you or a loved one was seriously harmed by an adverse reaction to anesthesia, you may be able to file a lawsuit to secure compensation. At Bianca | Matkins, our Baton Rouge medical malpractice attorneys have spent years fighting for the rights of injured clients throughout Louisiana.
Don’t wait to bring in the legal representation you need — give our firm a call to discuss your case or schedule a free consultation by sending us the details of your situation through our online form today.
