When you go to the hospital or healthcare facility for a routine procedure, the last thing you expect is to wake up with a brain injury. However, this can happen, affecting you for the rest of your life. If this has happened to you or a loved one, you may not know how to proceed. Keep reading to learn what you can do and discover how a Houston, Texas brain injuries lawyer can help you receive the justice you deserve.
How Do Brain Injuries Happen From Medical Malpractice?
Though brain injuries are most commonly associated with getting hit in the head or hitting your head on a surface, there are a number of ways someone can sustain traumatic injuries when on an operating table.
Most commonly, brain injuries during operations are caused by a lack of oxygen, also known as hypoxia. When someone doesn’t get enough oxygen to the brain, it can cause irreversible damage. Hypoxia is most commonly associated with anesthesia, as too much can make it difficult for the patient’s body to move muscles on its own meaning they can fail to breathe. The anesthesiologist is supposed to remain in the room monitoring the patient’s levels to ensure their body is reacting well to the medication.
It’s also important to note that your doctors are supposed to carefully and thoroughly read your information before administering any medication. Some patients who suffer allergies to anesthetics may have brain damage if they receive the medication. They are also supposed to know what prescriptions you are currently taking to avoid drug interactions that can have life-altering impacts on the brain.
Brain injury can also occur if the surgeon accidentally cuts the blood supply that your body needs to transport oxygen to the brain or due to something as simple as failing to properly intubate you.
Am I Eligible for Compensation if I am a Victim of Malpractice?
You might be eligible for financial compensation if you or a loved one have suffered a traumatic brain injury due to a negligent doctor.
Generally, you can file a suit against a few different parties. This includes the doctor or healthcare providers responsible for the injury and the hospital that employs them. The hospital is responsible for vetting and providing the necessary tools and training to ensure their doctors are held to a high standard. If this particular doctor has a history of negligence and the healthcare center failed to handle the situation, they can also be held liable for any injuries you’ve sustained.
When you’re hurt during a simple procedure, understanding your legal rights is essential to protecting yourself. You’ll have a two-year statute of limitations to file a suit against the negligent parties. At Davis & Davis, we can help you navigate this process. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help fight for the justice you deserve.