Undergoing a medical operation is stressful enough, but many patients cannot heal properly because they face postoperative infections. These situations become even more unsettling when there is concern that medical care may not have met expected standards. When negligence is involved, things can get quite complicated, especially without an experienced legal team on your side.

What Is Medical Malpractice?

Medical malpractice happens when a healthcare provider does not follow accepted standards of care, directly resulting in harm to a patient. These cases often focus on whether medical decisions, communication, or treatment actions were appropriate for the situation. Investigators analyze the provider’s diagnosis, timely interventions, adherence to protocols, and monitoring of patient progress throughout treatment.

How Do Postoperative Infections Happen?

Postoperative infections can develop when hygiene protocols are not properly followed, surgical instruments are contaminated, or follow-up care is delayed. Symptoms may appear shortly after surgery and can worsen rapidly without prompt attention. The possible symptoms include fever, swelling, pain, delayed healing, and additional medical complications that require extended treatment or hospitalization.

What Evidence Supports a Medical Malpractice Claim?

Key evidence may include medical records, lab results, documented symptoms, and second opinions from other medical providers, like expert witnesses. This information helps show whether the provider acted appropriately and whether their actions contributed to the patient’s injury. Additional supporting materials can include surgical notes, medication records, imaging results, and timelines of care. That evidence can establish the sequence of events and clarify how the provider’s decisions may have affected the patient’s outcome.

How Can a Lawyer Assist With a Medical Malpractice Case in Albuquerque?

A medical malpractice lawyer can review your medical records, consult healthcare professionals, identify potential claims, and prepare the case for negotiation or court proceedings. Their role is to help clarify responsibilities and build a strong factual foundation. They can also organize evidence, track treatment timelines, communicate with hospitals or insurers, and advise on applicable laws and deadlines.

How Are Damages Calculated in Medical Malpractice Cases?

Damages may cover medical costs, lost income, and compensation for pain, suffering, or long-term limitations. The amount depends on medical documentation, the severity of injuries, and the projected impact on daily life. Additional factors can include future medical needs, rehabilitation expenses, emotional distress, and changes to the patient’s ability to perform work, daily activities, or maintain overall quality of life.

How Do Courts Evaluate the Standard of Care?

Courts determine whether a provider acted as a reasonably careful medical professional would under similar circumstances. They rely on medical guidelines, literature, and professional testimony to reach this assessment. Courts may also consider hospital protocols, peer practices, prior incidents, and the patient’s condition at the time of the surgery.

How Do Postoperative Infections Affect Long-Term Health?

Postoperative infections can result in organ damage, extended treatment, additional surgeries, and lasting physical restrictions. In some cases, these patients are unable to return to work temporarily or permanently. Prompt medical care is important to minimize long-term complications.

What Steps Should I Take After Discovering a Postoperative Infection?

Seek prompt medical care from another provider and keep detailed records of your symptoms and treatment. We also recommend requesting copies of all medical records and not speaking with insurance representatives before consulting a lawyer.  

What Types of Providers May Be Liable for Medical Malpractice?

Surgeons, nurses, anesthesiologists, hospitals, and outpatient centers can all be responsible if their care falls below accepted standards. Liability is determined by each provider’s actions and their specific role in the patient’s treatment. Other healthcare professionals, such as physician assistants, lab technicians, or imaging specialists, may also be at fault if their mistakes or oversights contributed to an injury. The overall assessment considers how each provider’s decisions, communication, and adherence to protocols affected the patient’s outcome.

Our Experienced Albuquerque Medical Malpractice Lawyers at Buchanan Law Firm, LLC Hold Healthcare Providers Accountable for Negligence

If you or a loved one suffered a postoperative infection, you may be eligible for compensation. For more information, contact our Albuquerque medical malpractice lawyers at Buchanan Law Firm, LLC. Call 505-900-3559 or complete our online form today for a free consultation. Located in Albuquerque, NM, we serve clients in the surrounding areas.