Anesthesia is essential in surgeries. Thanks to anesthesia, patients can undergo necessary procedures without pain or awareness. However, there is still the risk of things going wrong.
Anesthesia mistakes can lead to life-altering health complications. Knowing common errors may help you make more informed decisions and better prepare for the surgery.
Incorrect or improper dosage
Misjudging the correct dosage is one of the most common anesthesia mistakes. Possible causes of dosage errors include:
- Miscalculating the patient’s weight
- Failing to account for drug interactions
- Overlooking patient-specific factors like age or health conditions
Too much or too little anesthesia is dangerous. An overdose may lead to prolonged unconsciousness or breathing complications. Meanwhile, an underdose may result in patients waking up during surgery and experiencing pain or distress.
Failure to monitor vitals
Constant monitoring of patient vitals is necessary to ensure that you are responding well to the anesthesia. Your anesthesiologist and surgical team vigilantly monitor your heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen levels.
Failing to notice changes in these indicators can delay critical interventions. In turn, delays may lead to serious harm or even death.
Improper intubation
Breathing tubes are a common way to administer anesthesia. Proper intubation is crucial for maintaining your airway and a consistent supply of the anesthetic. Intubation mistakes can lead to complications like:
- Chipping or breaking the teeth
- Damaging the windpipe
- Stomach contents entering the lungs, leading to aspiration pneumonia
Proper intubation is crucial for maintaining your airway and a consistent supply of anesthetic and oxygen. Lack of oxygen can lead to brain damage or even death in extreme cases.
What to do if you experience anesthesia errors
If you feel that something is wrong after your surgery, it’s important to document your experience. Keep track of any unusual symptoms and discuss them with your doctor. Address your concerns promptly to ensure your safety and well-being.
Moreover, do not hesitate to seek legal guidance if you suspect an anesthesia error occurred during your surgery. A legal professional specializing in medical malpractice may help you determine if you have grounds to seek legal recourse and help you understand your options.