The time after surgery is often difficult for patients. They’re likely in pain and unable to think clearly about what’s happening. They trust that the medical team will care for them properly during this time.
Unfortunately, some patients have to deal with errors made by the medical team. These results can range from minor issues to catastrophic problems that last a lifetime. In severe cases, patients can die from these errors.
1: Failure to monitor
Proper monitoring when a patient gets out of surgery is a must. Because patients go under anesthesia, they need close monitoring of their vital signs until they’re fully awake. Monitoring blood pressure, heart rate and similar symptoms can help clue the medical team into any patient problems.
The medical team must also pay close attention to the surgical incisions. Watching for signs of infection, such as fever, redness, or pus from the wound, lets them know they must take action. When patients aren’t closely monitored, life-threatening issues can occur.
2: Premature discharge
Being discharged from the hospital surgical center after surgery requires the patient to understand the aftercare necessary. The patient should also be able to do the required care or have help to get it done. Patients who are discharged too soon can have serious problems, and they don’t have a medical team readily available to treat any of those.
3: Inadequate follow-up
Follow-up care after surgery is critical, but patients don’t always know what’s expected. Ideally, all follow-up appointments will be made for the patient before discharge. If those can’t be made, the patient should have concise written instructions to rely on regarding the necessary follow-up.
Medical errors after surgery can lead to severe complications. Victims of these errors may consider seeking compensation for the damages related to the error.