Most Colorado patients expect to be in good hands during their hospital stay. However, a report shows that over 400,000 deaths that occur across the nation every year are the result of medical errors that take place while the patient is hospitalized. While some of the risks of being hospitalized are beyond the control of the medical staff, patients may be able to ease their own recovery process.
If the patient is able to choose the hospital, it is recommended that they pick one that regularly performs the procedure. It is also a good sign if the hospital is recommended by former patients. Patients should provide a list to the hospital prior to surgery regarding any medications or allergies that the person might have.
If the patient is undergoing surgery, the operating staff must go through a number of safeguards before operation. Ideally, patients are involved in the process in order to ensure that the proper procedure is taking place with their full consent. Once the surgery is over, patients or their family members should have a way to reach a staff member involved in the actual procedure should any concerns rise.
While patients can help reduce the risk of complications from a surgical error during their stay in a hospital, it is ultimately the responsibility of the medical staff to ensure the safety of their patients. Should a medical error occur, the patient or the patient’s family members may be eligible to file a medical malpractice lawsuit against the staff and the hospital. A personal injury attorney can assess individual cases and offer advice on the best approach.
Source: US News & World Report, “How to Survive Your Hospital Stay”, Lisa Esposito, June 03, 2014