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When Emergency Room Errors Lead to Malpractice in Illinois (Part A)

It is not uncommon for someone who has been injured in an accident or has suddenly become ill to be taken to an emergency room. This type of visit is based on urgency and requires the help of a qualified and skilled doctor. Unfortunately, because of the fast pace of this setting, there is the risk of an emergency room error taking place.

If you have suffered medical negligence in an emergency room, you may be eligible to seek compensation through an Illinois medical malpractice claim. Consulting with a Chicago medical malpractice lawyer is the next step you should take to determine whether you have a valid claim.

What can lead to an emergency room error?

Emergency rooms are busy with a lot of activity taking place. This creates the possibility of an emergency room error happening. However, the risk of hospital errors increases when there is a shortage in staff or if a large number of the patients who are being tended to are in serious or critical condition.

Sometimes there is miscommunication or a mix-up in patients or their files and records. Other circumstances that could lead to an emergency room error include:

• lack of training or experience;
• emergency rooms are poorly equipped;
• delay in obtaining a specialist;
• fatigued/overworked staff; and
• doctor rushes the patient rather than providing detailed care and attention.

While there may be a lot of pressure to work quickly, if a staff member causes a patient to suffer injuries or an illness that could have been prevented, this may be a case of emergency room negligence.

Patients who are seen in an emergency room are entitled to receive the highest quality of care. If they do not and it results in injuries, the responsible healthcare provider may be held liable through an Illinois medical malpractice claim.

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