Anaesthetics are administered to patients undergoing procedures and surgical operations to ‘numb the sensations in certain areas of the body or to induce sleep’. Some procedures require the use of anaesthesia to reduce and prevent pain.
Errors made by anaesthetists during surgery can dramatically impact an individual’s life emotionally and physically. Although rare, mistakes are the subject of most claims. Even the slightest of errors can have catastrophic effects such as brain and organ damage, as well as nerve injury.
Common causes of anaesthetic negligence include:
- Anaesthetic awareness- Where the patient is awake during a procedure but is in a state of paralysis and unable to speak. This can lead to psychological trauma such as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and depression.
- Failure to monitor effects – How the patient reacts to the anaesthetic must be monitored. Failure to notice any signs of distress may lead to serious and fatal consequences.
Improper preparation and incorrect dose- Correct preparation procedures must be followed, informed consent obtained, and medical records reviewed. Administering the incorrect dose can cause brain and organ damage, or even death.
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