Trust in a healthcare provider is a cornerstone of the patient-provider relationship. As patients, we place our lives in the hands of these professionals, expecting the highest level of care and expertise. When that trust is broken due to negligence, resulting in injury, harm, or even death, patients have the right to pursue legal action against the responsible doctor, clinic, or hospital.
What is Medical Malpractice?
Medical malpractice occurs when a physician, hospital, or its employees fail to provide the reasonable care, skill, or knowledge that is expected.
A medical malpractice lawsuit may arise from various situations, such as:
- Misdiagnosis, delayed diagnosis, or failure to diagnose
- Surgical errors, like performing surgery on the wrong patient, organ, or body site
- Infections acquired in the hospital
- Birth injuries resulting from negligence during pregnancy or childbirth
- Medication or pharmacy errors, such as incorrect medication, dosage, or improper administration
- Anesthesia mistakes, including excessive dosage, failure to monitor vital signs, or improper handling of patient distress
- Incorrect or inappropriate treatment for the patient’s condition
Medical Malpractice vs. Medical Negligence
Though often used interchangeably, medical malpractice and medical negligence have distinct legal meanings. Negligence refers to a person’s failure to act with reasonable care in a given situation, leading to harm. In medical contexts, negligence occurs when a healthcare professional fails to meet the standard of care expected in their field. If their negligence directly causes harm to a patient, it may lead to a medical malpractice lawsuit.
What Constitutes Medical Malpractice?
Medical malpractice involves harm or injury to a patient caused directly by a medical professional’s negligence. There are various forms of medical malpractice, but proving negligence is typically the key element in these cases. If you believe you have suffered due to a healthcare provider’s negligence, it is important to consult with an experienced medical malpractice lawyer in Las Vegas to evaluate your case.
Helping Victims of Medical Negligence in Las Vegas
Medical malpractice cases are often highly technical and strongly defended, requiring expert testimony from medical authorities. An attorney with experience in these cases can assess the merits of your case and guide you through the legal process. At Howard Injury Law, our team of medical malpractice attorneys in Las Vegas can provide valuable insight into your case and determine the best course of action.
In Nevada, medical malpractice laws govern cases within the state, regardless of the patient’s home state. Additionally, Nevada requires plaintiffs to file an affidavit of merit before initiating a medical malpractice lawsuit, outlining the basis of the claim and identifying the defendants. Failure to file this affidavit may result in the dismissal of the case.
Who Can Be Held Accountable for Medical Malpractice?
While doctors are the most common defendants in medical malpractice cases, many other healthcare professionals can be held liable, including:
- Chiropractors: If a chiropractor causes harm by manipulating the wrong disc or applying excessive pressure, they may be sued for malpractice.
- Dentists: If a dentist fails to diagnose or treat serious oral health issues, such as infections, it could lead to a malpractice claim.
- Doctors: Doctors must order appropriate tests, refer patients to specialists, and follow up on test results. Failure to do so may lead to a malpractice case.
- EMTs and Paramedics: Emergency responders play a critical role in patient outcomes. Delays or failures in providing proper care can result in a medical malpractice claim.
- Nurses: Nurses are responsible for administering care as directed by doctors. If a nurse neglects to report significant changes in a patient’s condition, leading to harm, they may be liable.
- Pharmacists: Mistakes in medication, such as dispensing the wrong drug or dosage, can result in harm and legal action.
- Physical Therapists: Failure to follow appropriate treatment protocols or disregarding a patient’s condition can lead to malpractice suits if it causes injury.
- Surgeons: Surgical errors, such as operating on the wrong organ or leaving foreign objects in the body, can result in significant harm and grounds for a malpractice lawsuit.
Medical Malpractice Lawyer In Las Vegas
Medical malpractice and errors can result in devastating consequences. For such complex cases, you need a legal team with the expertise, resources, and a proven track record of securing substantial awards. At Howard Injury Law, we will expertly guide you through the legal process as your dedicated personal injury lawyer. From the initial free consultation to the resolution of your case, our experienced attorneys serve Nevada, California, Colorado, and Arizona, and are committed to providing comprehensive support and representation. We understand the complexities and challenges that come with personal injury claims, and we are here to ensure that your rights are protected every step of the way.
Free Consultation with Howard Injury Law:
📲 (702) 331-5722 M-F/9-5
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