Anesthesia is crucial for inducing unconsciousness and preventing pain during certain medical procedures like surgery and oral care. Depending on the nature of the medical procedure, anesthesia can be local, regional or general. However, anesthesia, just like any other medication, does come with its share of risks.
Anesthesia errors happen all the time. If you are a victim of a preventable anesthesia error, you may pursue the healthcare provider or hospital for damages through a medical malpractice claim. Here are common anesthesia errors that can lead to serious injuries or even death:
Dosage errors
An anesthesia dosage error can happen in two ways: too little or too much anesthesia. Too little anesthesia amounts to under dose. This can cause the patient to regain consciousness before the procedure is through. As a result, they may experience pain and trauma.
Too much anesthesia, on the other hand, amounts to an overdose. This too can lead to serious complications like organ damage.
Failing to monitor the patient’s response to anesthesia
Besides ensuring that the patient receives the right anesthesia dosage, an anesthesiologist is also required to keep an eye on the patient during the procedure. This involves monitoring their vital signs, blood oxygen levels, heart rate as well as blood pressure. Failure to closely monitor the patient’s response to anesthesia during the procedure can lead to serious injuries or even death.
Failing to follow the standard protocols
Healthcare providers are expected to follow a specific standard protocol while treating patients. This includes understanding what to do should the patient wake up before the procedure is through, preparing the patient for surgery and responding to patients who experience allergic reactions following anesthesia administration. Failing to follow the laid out procedures can lead to injuries to the patient, and this can expose the hospital and responsible healthcare providers to medical malpractice claims.
Anesthesia plays a crucial role in patient treatment. However, if you sustain an injury that is attributable to an anesthesia error, then you may need to pursue the liable party for damages.