Anaesthesia Errors

Anaesthesia Errors In Hospital

Undergoing a medical procedure is a stressful situation, thankfully via anaesthesia you will be unconscious as the procedure happens. Anaesthesiologists through the use of drugs, gasses and medications have tremendous responsibility for not only keeping a patient sedated but also keeping a close eye on vital signs and oxygen levels. Administering anaesthesia however is not without risk and anaesthesia errors are a regular occurrence. These errors take many different forms most of which result in negligence claims being sought.

Inaccurate dosage

The amount of anaesthesia required is calculated by taking the patient’s weight and blood pressure. If an error is made with this calculation then the patient may receive too much or too little anaesthesia. Too much can result in the patient being unconscious for longer than is necessary. Too little results in anaesthesia awareness (a patient is unable to communicate and feels pain). An inaccurate dosage can also damage the respiratory system potentially having catastrophic consequences.

Incorrect procedure

In addition to the dosage, anaesthesiologists must carefully time the administration of the medication. A delay in the delivery whether it be haste, inexperience or carelessness could result in the anesthetic being ineffective. A patient’s breathing, pulse and brain activity (vital signs) must be closely monitored for signs of distress. Anaesthesia suppresses many of the body’s normal functions so not carefully watching these can have devastating repercussions.

Documentation/preparation errors

Failure to determine if a patient is allergic to anaesthesia by not testing for adverse reactions beforehand or checking medical history. Failing to provide proper instruction to patients to prepare them before administration

Defective equipment

Anaesthesiologists are responsible for calibrating the equipment that administers the medication and therefore checking and double checking that all equipment works as it should.

With many years of experience you can rest assured that you will be in the best possible hands right from the start.

Contact us today for free, no obligation advice regarding your Anaesthesia Negligence claim – either by calling us free on 0800 122 3130, or by requesting a free call back, whereby one of our team will contact you at a time of your choice, to discuss your situation.

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