When we visit a hospital, clinic, or other medical facility, we expect that any instruments used will be sterilized. If you or someone close to you has been adversely affected by contaminated instruments, it is imperative to reach out to a knowledgeable Syracuse surgical malpractice attorney who can help. At DeFrancisco & Falgiatano Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand how dirty instruments can cause serious health problems, such as infections and illnesses. You can rest assured that we will analyze the facts of your case and help you mount a strong case for financial compensation.
Unfortunately, the use of contaminated instruments may be more common than you think. According to a pilot program conducted by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, out of 1,500 outpatient surgery centers that were inspected, about 28 percent were cited for infection control deficiencies related to surgical instrument cleaning and sterilization. Using unclean instruments can lead to a number of adverse consequences, including infections, loss of limb, and even death.
Hospitals have a duty to make sure that germs, disease, and contamination are kept in check through proper sterilization methods. When a dirty instrument injures a patient, that patient may be able to recover compensation through a medical malpractice claim. Medical malpractice is defined as a failure to render care or treatment in accordance with the accepted standards of medical practice. In other words, medical malpractice takes place when a person or entity causes a patient harm by deviating from the level of care that a reasonably prudent person or entity would have used in the same or a similar situation. For example, a hospital adhering to the accepted standard of care would have a system in place to ensure each instrument was sterilized before it was used on a patient. As a result, a hospital that caused a patient harm by failing to do this would likely be liable for malpractice.
Using contaminated instruments can make existing conditions worse or create entirely new health problems that keep patients in the hospital for longer than expected. Taking into account the costs associated with such medical mistakes, New York law allows victims of medical malpractice to recover a variety of damages, such as medical expenses, costs of future care, lost income, disability, and pain and suffering, as well as compensation for any other losses stemming from the malpractice. Each case is different, and the exact dollar amount a plaintiff will be entitled to receive will differ based on the specifics of that case.
Using contaminated instruments can lead to serious, even deadly injuries. If you or someone close to you has suffered harm due to a medical professional using a contaminated instrument, you need to speak to a seasoned Syracuse surgery malpractice attorney without delay. At DeFrancisco & Falgiatano Personal Injury Lawyers, we will work diligently to gather the necessary evidence, establish malpractice, and help you pursue the compensation you need to move on with your life. With years of experience, we understand how to navigate these complex claims. To discuss your case in more detail, do not hesitate to call us at 833-200-2000 or contact us online.
More Blog Posts:
Damages in New York Medical Malpractice Cases, Syracuse Medical Malpractice and Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, December 4, 2017
Spinal Cord Injuries as a Result of Medical Malpractice in Syracuse or Elsewhere in New York, Syracuse Medical Malpractice and Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, December 1, 2017