How Sepsis Misdiagnosis Leads to Catastrophic Injuries

Sepsis is a serious medical emergency that can rapidly worsen when symptoms are not recognized and treated promptly. When a healthcare professional fails to identify the signs of sepsis or provides inadequate treatment, a patient may suffer severe complications. The Greenville medical malpractice attorneys at Parham Smith & Archenhold, LLC, have fought to protect the rights of injured South Carolina residents since 1986 and can assist you with your claim.

Why Is Prompt Sepsis Diagnosis Essential?

Sepsis occurs when the body’s response to an infection causes widespread inflammation and can lead to organ damage. Healthcare professionals must evaluate a patient’s symptoms, medical history, and condition to determine the appropriate course of treatment.

Without timely medical intervention, the condition can progress to septic shock, which may cause life-threatening complications. Common consequences of severe or untreated sepsis can include:

• Organ failure and permanent organ damage

• Brain injuries caused by inadequate oxygen to the brain

• Amputations resulting from tissue damage

• Permanent disabilities and reduced quality of life

A medical malpractice claim generally requires evidence that the healthcare provider failed to provide the level of care expected under the circumstances and that this failure caused the patient’s injuries. 

In a sepsis case, this may involve examining how quickly the provider responded to warning signs, what testing was performed, how the patient’s condition was monitored, and what treatment was provided.

What Compensation May Be Available After a Sepsis Misdiagnosis?

A severe sepsis-related injury can create substantial challenges for victims. Depending on the circumstances of the case, a medical malpractice claim may seek compensation for two main types of damages resulting from the patient’s injuries:

Economic Damages

Economic damages are intended to compensate an injured patient for identifiable financial losses caused by the medical provider’s negligence. Economic damages may include past and future medical expenses, prescription medication costs, rehabilitation and therapy expenses, and necessary medical equipment.

If sepsis causes lasting complications or a permanent disability, the cost of future medical care may become a significant part of a claim.

Lost income may also be recoverable. A patient who is unable to work during treatment and recovery may lose wages or other employment income. If sepsis-related complications prevent the patient from returning to the same occupation or working at the same capacity, a claim may also involve reduced future earning capacity. 

Non-economic Damages

A patient who experiences prolonged hospitalization, invasive treatment, permanent complications, or significant changes to their daily life may face substantial nonfinancial consequences.

Non-economic damages address the personal impact of an injury rather than specific financial losses. These damages may include physical pain and suffering, emotional distress, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, and other effects associated with serious injuries. 

Consult With Our Greenville Medical Malpractice Attorneys Today

When a medical professional causes injury, you deserve to have a strong legal advocate on your side. Let one of the Greenville medical malpractice lawyers at Parham Smith & Archenhold, LLC, handle your case so you can focus on your recovery and well-being during this challenging time. Contact our team today by calling 864-242-9008 or using our online contact form.