Few environments are more tense and chaotic than a busy hospital emergency department. Doctors and nurses usually have their hands full, but they must still provide patients with high-standard healthcare.
Insurance companies are good at organizing and analyzing information. Using the research of a malpractice insurance provider, we uncovered three forms of emergency room malpractice.
With vascular and neurological diseases
Of the claims the insurer handled during the research period, approximately 31% involved vascular or neurological illnesses. Since these diseases can cause further damage if addressed improperly, an incorrect diagnosis or treatment could impact the patient substantially.
With diagnostic irregularities
Often, a patient’s prognosis depends on getting treatment as soon as possible, if not immediately. The research showed that emergency room delay or failure to order diagnostic testing was the top contributing factor in medical malpractice claims.
With these three steps
Analysis of claims data revealed three emergency room steps in which the most diagnostic errors occur.
- When ordering diagnostic tests – 53%
- Consultation (with medical associates) management – 33%
- Monitoring of patient’s clinical status – 32%
A mistake can happen in any situation. However, medical professionals have a higher duty than others to prevent harm. When it was possible to have avoided the error with standard procedures or treatment, injured victims may have grounds for a malpractice claim.
While this only involves one insurance company, it shows how an emergency department professional can make errors that hurt patients. Other forms of hospital malpractice include providing negligent triage, working on the wrong patient and not providing post-discharge instructions.
Make sure you know the medical malpractice laws in Indiana and seek experienced guidance to give your claim the best chance of success.
