Most Common Nursing Errors To Look For
Nurses and nursing assistants play one of the biggest roles in patient interaction and care. Due to the demands of this career, many nurses have an overwhelming workload. This may lead to nursing errors that are, in some cases, detrimental to patients. Errors by nurses can even lead to wrongful death. As we rely on nurses and other medical professionals to provide us with proper care, it is important to recognize common nursing errors, medical malpractice and know how to avoid them.
Most Common Nursing Errors
Falling Accidents – Some patients may feel uncomfortable asking a nurse for help when they need to move about the room. However, not asking for help, or attempting to get out of bed or move around on your own because a nurse is unavailable or has not stopped to check on you, for an extended period of time, can lead to an accidental fall. If a nurse has not informed you of the proper activity orders, encouraged you to call for help, provided non-slip socks or if they simply have not performed rounds can all be classified as neglect and lead to medical malpractice.
Infection Issues – According to the CDC, hospital infections account for 99,000 deaths in American hospitals, each year. Nurses interact with a lot of patients with many different illnesses. Infection can spread very easily while conducting rounds. For instance, if a nurse interacts with a patient with the flu, does not properly disinfect their hands and then visits a patient with a compromised immune system. If you notice nursing staff that has not clearly disinfected their hands, or equipment in front of you, you have the right to request they do so.
Documentation Errors – Medical records and proper documentation are an essential part of being a nurse. This essential information is vital to proper care across the different medical staff of which you may interact. Documentation of a piece of information, or the lack thereof, can dramatically alter the care a patient receives. As a patient, you can request copies of your records to ensure that the information is complete and valid.
Medication Errors – Mixing medications between patients, incorrect dosages, or giving a prescription to the wrong patient are some of the medication errors that are common for nurses. However, a mistake with medication can cause severe harm or even death. Always verify the shape, color, name and description of your medication to ensure that the administered drug is correct.
Equipment Injuries – In the medical field, equipment and technology are always changing. Nurses have a responsibility to stay abreast of these changes and be competent in the use of necessary equipment. Failure to use equipment properly can potentially cause harm to patients. If you have been injured by a nurse improperly using equipment, it is vital to report it immediately.
Body Mechanics – Body mechanics mistakes refer to the transfer, carrying or moving of patients from one place to another. Nurses should be aware of the proper ways to conduct this movement. A mistake while attempting to move a patient can injure both the patient and the nurse.
Parties Potentially Liable for Nursing Mistakes
Nursing errors fall under the category of medical malpractice. The National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB), a federal information clearinghouse that tracks medical malpractice claims, states that there are four types of nurses:
- Registered nurses (RNs)
- Licensed nurses (LNs)
- Advanced practice nurses (APRNs)
- Nursing para-professionals
Any or all of these professionals are responsible for providing proper care. They can all be held liable if a mistake is made that injures a patient. Other defendants in a nursing medical malpractice case can include the hospital and the attending doctor.
Steps to Take After a Nursing Error
Don’t Wait to Start a Claim – If you believe you have been the victim of a nursing error and therefore medical malpractice, do not hesitate to start a claim. The Statute of Limitations for medical malpractice cases in the State of Florida requires that any claims against medical professionals be filed within two years of the incident or discovery of the incident. Beginning a claim as soon as possible will allow for more prompt and accurate details to be included in the execution of your case.
Collect Appropriate Medical Records – Gather any and all information you have on the treatment and procedures involved in the medical malpractice incident. This will provide ample evidence and any important aspects of a nursing error for the claim.
Find an Experienced Lawyer – Medical malpractice and nursing errors can often be complex. Rules and regulations for these cases vary from state to state. It is imperative to seek advice and representation from an experienced medical malpractice lawyer.
The attorneys at Avera & Smith are experienced in medical malpractice trials and discovering the truth about nursing errors. If you or a loved one believe you have fallen victim to nursing errors, contact us today for more information on your rights.