Getting a blood transfusion is a common medical procedure that many patients need when they are hospitalized, and it can sometimes be life-saving. However, errors can happen when medical professionals administer a blood transfusion. Unfortunately, these mistakes can be deadly or cause patients to suffer serious medical conditions, such as stroke, kidney failure, and clotting problems. If you suffered injuries due to errors in getting a blood transfusion, you may have a claim for medical malpractice entitling you to compensation for your injuries.
What Are Common Blood Transfusion Mistakes That Lead to Medical Malpractice Claims?
Blood transfusions are usually administered by non-physician medical personnel. When they fail to follow proper safety measures, they can make an error that can cause catastrophic consequences for the patient. Some top errors that result in people filing medical malpractice claims include:
- Mismatched blood. Giving a patient blood that is not his type can cause him to suffer serious injuries or die. Medical professionals are required to take a blood sample from the patient and type and screen it for a donor match. A patient could have a medical malpractice claim if his blood is not properly typed and screened. Even when this is done properly, medical personnel can commit medical malpractice by inadvertently giving the patient the wrong blood.
- Improper administration of blood transfusion. Medical staff can also make medical malpractice errors in the administration of the blood transfusion. Using a needle that is too long can cause the blood to enter the body in the wrong place. An unsanitary needle can result in a person developing an infection. If the needle is inserted in the wrong place, he can suffer nerve damage—sometimes permanent. In addition, if too much blood is administered, it can cause the patient’s death.
- Administration of infected blood. Donated blood is supposed to be screened for infectious disease antibodies. If it is improperly screened, a patient can become infected when given a blood transfusion with potentially deadly consequences.
If you suspect that you are the victim of medical malpractice, you need to take legal action to obtain the compensation you could be entitled to. Fill out our online form today to schedule a free case evaluation with one of our experienced medical malpractice attorneys.
|
Related Links: |