Attorneys Holding Negligent Anesthesiologists Accountable For Patient Harm

Anesthesiologists and nurse anesthetists who administer anesthesia have a very important duty to their patients. They must make sure that they administer the proper dosage and type of anesthesia so that the patient can undergo surgery safely. During a surgical procedure, they must monitor and regulate the patient’s blood pressure and vital functions. The anesthesiologist must also make sure that the patient’s heart, lungs, and other functions are stable before and during surgery.

The patient and their loved ones place a huge level of trust in the skill and training of the health care providers. Unfortunately, there are many cases where medical professionals are negligent in administering anesthesia, leading to serious health issues or even death. If you have been injured due to the negligent administration of anesthesia in the Miami area, contact Kaire & Heffernan, PLLC. Our attorneys will help you fight for the compensation you need and deserve.

What Is Anesthesia Malpractice?

Anesthesia involves the use of intravenous or inhaled drugs. It is used as a means of sedation, allowing patients to undergo medical procedures without being fully conscious or suffering any pain.

There are several anesthesia application strategies:

  • General anesthesia renders the patient unconscious through the entire procedure.
  • Regional anesthesia numbs certain large areas of the body (i.e., epidural anesthesia).
  • Local anesthesia numbs a particular area for surgery without inducing unconsciousness.

Anesthesia malpractice can occur when anesthesia is administered incorrectly, causing injury to the patient. It can also be caused by the improper use of anesthesia, such as failure to provide adequate monitoring or inadequate postoperative care.

It can also be caused by the following:

  • Failure to provide adequate monitoring or inadequate postoperative care
  • Allergic reactions
  • Pneumonia
  • Intubation injuries
  • Stroke
  • Heart attack
  • Blood clots
  • Brain damage
  • Anesthesia awareness (Becoming aware of your surroundings during the procedure)

Specific Examples of Anesthesia Injuries

Though not an exhaustive list, some common injuries resulting from anesthesia procedures include respiratory failure, brain damage, and cardiovascular injuries.

  • How to identify liability: Identifying the responsible party presents challenges. Multiple medical professionals could be accountable for anesthesia malpractice, starting with the attending anesthesiologist, nurse anesthetist, or the medical facility.
  • Breach of Duty of Care: Proof is paramount in anesthesia malpractice, specifically a duty to provide care and the particular medical professional that fell short in their duties.
  • Compensation Breakdown: Multiple types of compensation are available in anesthesia malpractice lawsuits, including pain and suffering, lost wages, medical expenses, and other financial or non-economic losses.
  • Statute of Limitations: While exceptions exist, timelines exist to file an anesthesia malpractice lawsuit. Florida statutes mandate that a case be filed within two years of the date of discovery or reasonably have been discovered.

Medical malpractice cases involving anesthesia can be complex, but the right lawyer can make a significant difference in your case. Our attorneys at Kaire & Heffernan have successfully resolved countless cases involving anesthesia-related injuries in Florida.

Common Anesthesia Errors Leading To Malpractice Claims

Some common examples of anesthesia malpractice include the following:

  • Failing to assess the patient before administering anesthesia adequately
  • Administering the wrong kind of anesthesia
  • Administering too little or too much anesthesia
  • Administration of anesthesia without proper equipment
  • Failing to monitor the patient’s vital signs properly

When anesthesia malpractice occurs during surgery, the consequences can be disastrous. Some patients suffer from respiratory failure, brain damage, cardiovascular injuries or disability, or they fall into a coma. A phenomenon called anesthesia awareness is another problem that can arise during surgery. Patients who do not fully lose consciousness or partially wake up under general anesthesia may still feel the effects of the surgery. This can result in several emotional problems, including anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, nightmares and flashbacks.

Discuss Your Case With Us In A Free Consultation

While anesthesia errors are rare, you should retain legal counsel immediately if you believe that you were injured due to medical negligence. Our attorneys can help you file a medical malpractice claim against the health care professionals responsible for your injuries. Don’t delay, as there is a statute of limitations on any type of personal injury claim.

Schedule your free initial consultation with our attorneys at Kaire & Heffernan by calling 305-376-7860. You can also fill out our online contact form, and we will respond as soon as possible. Se habla español.

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