Avoid Surgical Error With Proper Patient Education

There is little else as unsettling as going in for surgery and knowing that your health and well-being is in the hands of someone else. Surgical errors are more common than many people realize and can result in serious bodily injury or even death. For New Mexico residents like yourself, you can proactively take matters into your own hands by receiving proper patient education. At Curtis & Lucero Attorneys, we understand the complications of cases dealing with surgical errors.

According to Psychology Today, there are several steps you can take to be educated and prepared to communicate with your surgeon. These include the following:

  • Thoroughly read the “informed consent” form. You may notice that most of the clauses are vague and contain little to no information about what will actually take place. You can amend the document to include important agreements before you sign. In short, get all agreements in writing for your own security.
  • Arrange a time to meet the doctors who will be performing your surgery. Understand who is in charge and how the reporting process is set up. Your being familiar with the chain of command will encourage each doctor to act responsibly and give them a heightened awareness of accountability.
  • Make sure that you always have someone with you to accompany surgical procedures. Inform them of what will be happening and the agreements you have made with the doctors.
  • Never hesitate to ask questions and clarify your understanding of all medications that will be taken, treatment plans that will be followed and surgical proceedings to take place. Your understanding is imperative to your safety and health.

These precautions can do a great deal to secure your safety when it comes time to get surgery. Your education coupled with proactive communication with your surgeon can help you avoid becoming a victim of surgical error. More information about medical malpractice can be found on our web page.

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