Emergency rooms (ERs) are critical in providing lifesaving care to people who need urgent medical attention.
However, due to the fast-paced environment and high-pressure situations, medical errors can sometimes happen.
While ER staff work hard to deliver the best care, it's important to be aware of common mistakes that can occur. Here are five medical errors that may happen in an emergency room.
If you or a loved one has been affected by an ER error, it might be helpful to consult with
emergency room error attorneys who can guide you through the legal process.
1. Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis
In the ER, doctors must make quick decisions based on limited information. Sometimes, a patient may be diagnosed incorrectly, or the diagnosis may be delayed, leading to improper treatment.
For instance, chest pain could be seen as a simple case of heartburn when it’s actually a heart attack. If doctors don't recognize the true cause of symptoms quickly, the condition may worsen.
What can be done: Hospitals have systems in place to reduce misdiagnosis, like diagnostic tests (X-rays, MRIs, blood tests). However, patients should be honest about all their symptoms and medical history, as this helps the medical staff make the correct call.
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