Paramedic Error

Paramedic Error

Paramedics provide out of hospital emergency treatment to patients suffering from life threatening conditions such as respiratory failure, cardiac arrest and major trauma. They are often the first medical professional on the scene therefore making the difference between life and death. Paramedics are trained in a wide range of emergency settings and trained to make the right decisions quickly. Every effort must be made to arrive at the scene as quickly as possible to administer lifesaving treatment should it be needed. It is completely unacceptable when this doesn’t happen. The NHS has a responsibility to ensure our ambulance services are fully staffed and equipped to respond quickly to an emergency situation.

Most cases of paramedic negligence relate to the care provided before reaching the hospital – miscommunication leading to delays in reaching the scene and slow ambulance response times. For the most part paramedics cannot be faulted for their commitment to patient care, however there are occasions where their negligence leads to very serious problems for the person involved and the devastating impact this has on not only them but their families too;

• wrongful diagnosis, failing to recognise the symptoms of a heart attack/stroke
• failure to provide medication/pain relief or the provision of anti-allergic medication
• errors whilst fitting a head and neck brace resulting in spinal cord injuries following incorrect stabilisation
• errors whilst administering a tracheotomy
• missed fractures
• excessive use of force or dropping a patient
• failure to expedite a hospital transfer

Paramedic negligence can be a serious example of medical negligence. Sadly the misdiagnosis, the incorrect treatment, incorrect medication and delays in responding are not as uncommon as they should be. If you believe you may have a claim against the ambulance service or a paramedic then please do not hesitate to contact us. We will listen and advise on whether you are eligible to make a claim. 

Call us now on 0800 122 3130 or click here to start your claim.