Brain Injuries Caused by Medical Malpractice
It is tragic when a routine medical procedure or surgery goes wrong, and a patient is injured due to medical mistakes. One of the most vulnerable organs during medical treatment is the brain. Regardless of the circumstances, the brain must be protected and receive the needed oxygen to survive. Brain injuries caused by medical errors can impact a patient’s quality of life, forever altering their existence.
The brain can only survive a few minutes without oxygen. Hypoxia, or lack of oxygen to the brain, is one of the most common causes of brain damage. When this happens in a medical setting, it is often caused by an error. Monitoring oxygen to the brain of a patient should be the top priority during any procedure. This is due to the severe consequences that can occur in such a short period of time. Some of the common medical errors that can cause hypoxia or brain injuries include:
- Anesthesia overdose
- Lack of monitoring breathing or oxygen levels during surgery
- Dysfunctional respiratory equipment
- Medical errors during childbirth
It is the duty of medical professionals to protect patients from harm. When mistakes are made that impact the brain, the doctor, nurse, anesthesiologist and medical facility may be liable for the injury.
Other Types of Brain Injuries
Most brain injuries occur due to accidents. Impact to the head during accidents are usually to blame and difficult to prevent. Unfortunately, some brain injuries are directly caused by mistakes made under medical care. These can include:
- Falls/head injuries while in a hospital or nursing home
- Misdiagnosis of a brain condition
- Medication or anesthesia errors
- Trauma caused by abuse (usually in a long-term care facility)
- Infection
Brain damage can occur at various levels. For some, it could be severe and impact memory, cognitive function, speech or muscle movement. For others, it may be more subtle with behavioral changes or mood swings. The tragedy is that these types of brain injuries are preventable and should never occur in a medical setting.
If you or a loved one have suffered a brain injury due to medical errors or negligence, you deserve justice. Not only should your family be compensated to help cover the costs of the injury, pursuing a medical malpractice claim can prevent someone else from experiencing the same tragedy. Contact our team at Race Law Firm to discuss your claim. We offer free consultations at our office in Atlanta.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Brain Injuries Due to Medical Mistakes
- What is a medical malpractice-related brain injury?
A medical malpractice-related brain injury refers to harm to the brain resulting from errors or negligence during medical care. These injuries may occur due to surgical mistakes, anesthesia errors, misdiagnosis, or other medical malpractice situations. - How do medical mistakes lead to brain injuries?
Medical mistakes that can lead to brain injuries include surgical errors, medication errors, lack of oxygen during surgery, delayed diagnosis of conditions affecting the brain, or failure to monitor and respond to changes in a patient’s condition. - What are common signs of a brain injury caused by medical malpractice?
Signs may include cognitive impairment, memory loss, changes in behavior, headaches, seizures, or paralysis. It’s crucial to seek medical attention if you suspect a brain injury. - Can brain injuries due to medical malpractice be prevented?
In many cases, brain injuries resulting from medical malpractice are preventable with proper adherence to medical standards and protocols. Negligence in diagnosis, treatment, or postoperative care may contribute to these injuries. - How can one determine if a brain injury is a result of medical malpractice?
Consulting with a skilled medical malpractice attorney is crucial for determining liability. An attorney will assess medical records, consult with experts, and establish whether the injury resulted from a breach of the standard of care. - What legal options are available for victims of medical malpractice-related brain injuries?
Victims may pursue legal action to seek compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages. A medical malpractice attorney can guide them through the legal process. - Is there a time limit for filing a medical malpractice lawsuit for a brain injury?
Yes, there is a statute of limitations for filing medical malpractice lawsuits. It varies by jurisdiction, so it’s essential to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure compliance with legal timelines. - How can an attorney assist in a medical malpractice brain injury case?
An attorney can review medical records, consult with medical experts, and build a strong case to establish negligence. They can help victims seek compensation for the damages they’ve incurred due to the brain injury. - How do I schedule a consultation with Race Law Firm for a medical malpractice brain injury case?
To schedule a consultation with Race Law Firm for a medical malpractice brain injury case, contact us via phone or email. Our experienced team is here to provide legal guidance and support.