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Medical malpractice affects the lives of many patients in the United States. In fact, more than 98,000 people die every year due to medical errors and hundreds of thousands more suffer due to non-fatal injuries caused by medical negligence. These numbers are shocking—especially when you consider that these injuries could have been avoided.
Medical malpractice is a term used to describe an act of professional negligence or carelessness on the part of a doctor, nurse, or other medical professional. The malpractice may result when medical professionals fail to follow proper medical procedures or provide care that is below the normally accepted standard. It often occurs while a patient is in a healthcare facility.
Some common examples of medical malpractice that may take place in healthcare facilities are as follows:
- Surgical errors – Many different types of errors can take place before, during, and after a surgical procedure. Most of these errors can be avoided by following established procedures and clear communication between professionals.
- Infection – Healthcare-associated infections (HAI) affect approximately two million people in the United States each year. It has been estimated that one in every twenty hospitalized patients will contract some form of a HAI. Many of these infections can be prevented by following appropriate infection prevention policies and procedures.
- Medication errors – Serious injuries or even death can result when patients are given the wrong medication, the wrong dosage of their medication, or a medication they are allergic to.
- Errors caused by fatigue – Nurses, doctors and other healthcare professionals often work long hours and have little time to rest between shifts. Evidence has shown that when medical professionals are tired, errors are more likely to occur.
If you have suffered due to medical malpractice, you may be entitled to compensation. To discuss you legal options contact a Norfolk medical malpractice attorney at Tavss Fletcher. Contact our office today at 757-625-1214 to schedule a free legal consultation.