When it comes to undergoing a major medical procedure, it is important to take precautions to ensure that you are protected against medical malpractice. A medical malpractice attorney from our friends at David & Philpot, P.L. can provide invaluable advice on the best ways to prepare for a major medical procedure in order to avoid any potential malpractice:
Research Your Doctor and Facility
The goal is to ensure you have access to experienced and qualified providers and healthcare professionals who can help reduce the risk of medical malpractice. Start by doing some basic research online. Check to see if your doctor has any disciplinary actions on their record, as well as their level of experience and qualifications. You can also find out if any negative reviews have been written about them. Ask friends and family if they have any experience with the doctor or facility. It’s also important to look at the facility where you will be having your procedure. Make sure it is accredited and up to date on its safety protocols. It should also be equipped with the latest technology and resources necessary for a successful outcome.
Get a Second Opinion
Seeking out the advice of another physician can help provide more information and allow you to make a more informed decision about your care. It is important to note that while there are no laws requiring a second opinion, doctors may be required to inform patients of their right to seek one under some circumstances. When choosing a second doctor, it is important to make sure they have expertise in the field related to your surgery. This may involve researching their credentials and making sure they are board certified.
Prepare for the Worst Case Scenario
No matter how confident you are in your doctor and the medical procedure, it is always important to prepare for the worst case scenario. It’s best to have a plan in place if anything goes wrong. Ask your doctor what could potentially go wrong during the procedure. Do your own research as well so you can be informed. Know the risks and be aware of any warning signs that may indicate a problem with the procedure. Make sure you have copies of all important documents such as your medical records and any other paperwork pertaining to the surgery.
Follow all Pre-Op Instructions
Your doctor should provide you with a list of instructions to follow before your surgery. Be sure to discuss each instruction with your doctor so that you understand why you need to follow them. Common pre-op instructions include:
- Avoid eating or drinking anything after midnight the day before the procedure.
- Stop taking certain medications, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and aspirin.
- Refrain from smoking for at least 24 hours before the procedure.
- Arrange for transportation home after the surgery.
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes on the day of the procedure.
Have Someone Stay with You
Even though you may be unconscious during the surgery, it is important to have a trusted person there for emotional and physical support. They can also provide extra eyes and ears in the event that any problems arise during the procedure. Your friend or family member can also serve as an advocate for you when you are unable to communicate for yourself. This will ensure that if anything out of the ordinary happens, your advocate can speak up for you and make sure that your needs are being met.
If you have experienced malpractice, contact a medical malpractice attorney near you.