Individuals in Illinois and across the nation who are preparing to undergo a medical procedure may rely on surgical teams to be fully capable of providing a certain standard of care. While those who operate in the surgical field may undergo years of studying and training, previous experience might not make them immune to error. Studies indicate that the presence of distractions in an operating room could increase the risks of surgical errors, and similar forms of medical malpractice can carry catastrophic repercussions.
Sources of distraction
Any type of distraction in an operating room could disrupt the focus of those performing a procedure and increase the risks of errors. One of the most common forms of distraction could pertain to playing music during a procedure and loud noises could make it difficult to concentrate on the task at hand. Should a member of the surgical team receive a phone call during a procedure, the sound of the tone or even the vibration could disrupt the focus of those still attending a patient.
When a surgical team member steps away to take a call or for any other reason, this may leave other members facing a need to take over this party’s tasks, which could lead to a divide of attention. Such issues could also create delays in surgical schedules and transitions. Any type of distraction could also hinder communication between surgical team members, and similar issues could increase the risks of errors.
Outcome of errors
Surgical errors are a type of medical malpractice that could place the health of a patient at significant risk. Individuals who suffer severe or life-changing injuries due to similar forms of negligence may wish to exercise their rights to seek restitution in civil court, but the process can be complex in nature. When facing a similar situation, a person in Illinois could find it helpful to retain the services of an attorney for guidance in preparing a strategy with which to seek the full amount of compensation deserved through a claim against all parties deemed responsible.
