Misused Hospital Technology Can Be Hazardous to Your Health

Going to a New Mexico medical facility for minor surgery can be nerve-wracking for both you and your loved ones, despite the doctor’s experience and expertise. At Curtis & Lucero, we have experience representing clients who have been injured due to improper use of medical equipment.

Even though advanced technology and new procedures save lives each year, hospitals can still be hazardous. According to Forbes, there are more than 400,000 deaths in hospitals each year, and many are due to technology-related errors. So, although the equipment can improve patient outcome, it can also be devastating if not used properly or when incorrectly configured.

Depending on your condition, you may be connected to multiple IVs, and the result can be a tangle of tubes. Incorrect drip rates from one of the containers or medication being delivered to the wrong site can lead to misadministration of solutions and drugs, which can have fatal effects.

Electronic devices commonly help monitor several aspects of a patient’s status. Each device may have its own beep or buzz that sounds when a specific set of circumstances warrant an alarm. The resulting clamor can become background noise to the health care workers in attendance. They may not hear an alarm that means quick response is needed for a significant change in your condition. 

Errors in care related to surgery can have catastrophic results. From missing or erroneous information in your electronic health records to patient handling issues and device failures, hospitals can be dangerous places. If a medical facility has been negligent while caring for you or a family member, they may be liable. Visit our webpage for more information on this topic.

Categories: 
Related Posts
  • What Constitutes a Medical Error? Read More
  • Patient Safety Issues in the NICU Read More
  • The Four Elements of Medical Malpractice Read More