Improper administration of anesthesia can cause severe, lifelong, and sometimes fatal consequences. Anesthesiologists are responsible for providing safe and effective medication that patients rely on when undergoing surgical procedures. Negligence on the part of healthcare professionals involved in anesthesia could lead to liability for the harm caused by their error. A skilled Litchfield anesthesia errors lawyer can help injured patients pursue justice and hold negligent providers accountable.
The medical malpractice attorneys at D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC, have spent over 100 combined years fighting to see medical personnel held responsible for their mistakes. Injured patients harmed by careless or negligent healthcare providers deserve justice and compensation, and we are dedicated to helping our clients reach that outcome.
General anesthesia, which is the type that is used in most major surgeries and procedures, works because the medication interrupts signals in your brain and body to prevent you from processing pain. Typically, anesthesia will be injected intravenously through an IV, and some patients are also given a mask with medication to breathe in.
There are other types of anesthesia, such as local and regional anesthesia, but they do not pose as great a risk as general anesthesia. However, any type of anesthesia can cause injuries and complications. Nerve damage can occur in local and regional anesthesia, and there is the chance that not enough medication will be administered, causing severe pain. If you’ve suffered from such incidents, a Litchfield general anesthesia errors attorney can evaluate your case and advise on legal options.
Anesthesia is inherently dangerous. Any time you undergo a procedure that requires anesthesia, you face the risk of complications.
While you are asleep and receiving general anesthesia, the anesthesiologist and nurses must monitor your body functions closely to ensure you are not experiencing any negative reactions to the medication. They will check your vitals and readings, including your breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, temperature, and fluid levels. The medication may be adjusted based on how your body functions while under.
While risks exist for everyone, there are factors that can increase a patient’s chances of complications, including sleep apnea, diabetes, heart conditions, and high blood pressure. People with a history of smoking are also at a higher risk of experiencing issues with anesthesia. If an error in monitoring or medication adjustment occurs, contact a Litchfield anesthesia malpractice lawyer to explore your legal options.
Some examples of common mistakes that anesthesiologists, surgeons, and nurses may make during surgery involving anesthesia include:
Too much or too little anesthesia can have catastrophic consequences, including the patient waking up during surgery, brain injury, or death.
Not all negative symptoms associated with anesthesia are caused by medical negligence. Side effects like nausea, sore throat, and chills are common after anesthesia. When you discuss your case with an experienced attorney at D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC, we can provide guidance on whether or not your injuries justify a medical malpractice claim. Negative side effects after surgery can be challenging to deal with, but they do not always warrant an anesthesia error claim.
If you have been harmed by an anesthesia mistake, contact our office to schedule a free consultation with a Litchfield anesthesia errors lawyer. We have the experience and knowledge you need when navigating complex medical malpractice claims.
