In the medical world, a single mistake can be devastating, and it happens more than hospitals would like to admit. To put it in perspective, more than 250,000 deaths occur per year in the U.S. due to medical error. It’s not a statistic anyone hopes to see, but it does happen. Many of these cases result from a failure to diagnose, whether it’s given early enough in the process or if it’s even correct. A growing concern in hospitals comes with the lack of immediacy, or outright failure to diagnose a patient with sepsis, leading to medical malpractice.
What is Sepsis?
In simple terms, sepsis is an infection of the blood stream, which can spread rapidly and cause death. The blood clotting during sepsis reduces flow to the limbs and internal organs, depriving them of nutrients and oxygen. Essentially, it is the end result of an untreated infection with an overwhelming inflammatory response. This case has had steady growth, which is why it is imperative to know the symptoms and if the doctor is being procedurally accurate.
Symptoms of Sepsis
In short, sepsis deals with a multitude of sick symptoms that could be deemed “common,” which is why doctors may have a difficult time diagnosing it. For example, an abnormally high body temperature, excessively fast heart or respiratory rates, or trouble breathing may be signs that you are dealing with sepsis. However, several of these symptoms must be occurring simultaneously in addition to infection. Through the nature of the case, it typically occurs within hospitals, as the environment gives unfortunate exposure to patients.
The Standard of Care
When at the hospital and undergoing treatment, make sure you are being treated accurately. The standard of care applies to any case of medical malpractice, but especially when it comes to a sepsis diagnosis. The symptoms are often overshadowed by the initial infection, therefore not all doctors may take the time to consider ruling it out. That type of negligence is worrisome. A failure to diagnose sepsis is a violation of the standard of care and could end up being fatal in some cases. It is important to understand the questions a doctor asks you, and if they properly assessed and considered your overall condition before making a diagnosis.
The Snyder Law Group Can Help You With The Support You Need Due To A Poor Sepsis Diagnosis
The Snyder Law Group, LLC, proudly represents clients throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C. Our experienced Baltimore attorneys understand the frustration that comes with an insurance company, medical professional, or other party that refuses to accept liability for negligent or reckless behavior. You can take heart in knowing there are talented and experienced lawyers ready to work for you. We are experienced in handling personal injury claims of medical malpractice or injury resulting from serious car and truck accidents, and have secured hundreds of millions in verdicts settlements*. Please visit our website, www.410thefirm.com, for more information and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google +, and LinkedIn.