Medical studies show anesthesia errors are rising, and incidents are significantly underreported in medical settings. The authors of one survey funded by the National Institutes of Health report these mistakes most commonly occur during surgical procedures when patients are most vulnerable.
Root causes typically include knowledge gaps, failure to follow procedures, medication administration errors and poor communication between anesthesia team members. When these errors occur, the consequences can be devastating – ranging from minor complications to permanent disability or even death.
6 types of anesthesia errors
When anesthesiologists make mistakes, the impact on patients can be severe. Studies show that preventable adverse drug events can lead to permanent disability in nearly 14% of affected patients and increase hospital costs by approximately $4,700 per admission.
The most common anesthesia errors include:
- Incorrect dosing (administering too much or too little anesthesia)
- Drug substitution errors (using the wrong medication)
- Omission errors (failing to administer required medications)
- Communication breakdowns between medical team members
- Failure to properly monitor patients during procedures
- Equipment failures or improper equipment usage
To reduce these incidents, medical experts say health care providers should implement standardized drug labeling systems, create non-accusatory environments where errors are openly discussed while incorporating electronic monitoring systems.
Also, establishing clear communication protocols and proper training for less experienced anesthesiologists could significantly reduce error rates.
Steps for pursuing a malpractice claim
If you or a family member has suffered harm due to an anesthesia error, you have options to hold medical providers accountable.
First, document everything related to the incident, including medical records, witness accounts and any communication with health care providers. Massachusetts law gives you three years to file a medical malpractice lawsuit from the date you discovered the injury.
These cases require proving that the anesthesiologist or other medical professional failed to provide care that met accepted medical standards. This typically involves testimony from other medical professionals who can explain how the care you received deviated from proper protocols.
Working with an experienced medical malpractice attorney is crucial because these cases involve complex medical evidence and specific legal requirements. A skilled attorney can help gather expert testimony, navigate the Massachusetts medical malpractice tribunal process and build a compelling case to help you recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering.