Medical Malpractice

Personal Details:

Incident Details:

Specific Circumstances:

Sarah Thompson underwent surgery at River Valley Medical Center to remove her appendix. During the procedure, a surgical instrument was left inside her abdomen, leading to severe pain, infection, and the need for a second corrective surgery.

Parties Involved:

1. Sarah Thompson (client).

2. Dr. Paul Reynolds, surgeon.

3. River Valley Medical Center and operating room staf

Hospital Notification:

Hospital administration was informed following the corrective surgery, and an internal investigation is reportedly underway.

Injury Details:

Type of Injury:

Internal injuries and infection caused by the retained surgical instrument.

Emotional distress due to prolonged recovery and complications.

Medical Treatment:

Initial surgery on September 5, 2024.

Hospitalized for a week due to severe abdominal pain and infection.

Underwent a second surgery on September 20, 2024, to remove the instrument and address complications.

Prescribed antibiotics and referred for psychological counseling to manage stress and anxiety related to the incident.

Impact on Work:

Client, a teacher, has been unable to return to work since the incident. She has also faced difficulty maintaining her household duties and caring for her young children.

Evidence: Available

Medical Records:

Detailed surgical and post-operative reports, including records of the retained instrument.

Photos and Documentation:

Hospital documentation of the retained instrument and subsequent corrective surgery.

Witness Statements:

Operating room staff and a nurse who identified the issue during follow-up care.

Hospital Investigation:

Preliminary findings indicate failure to adhere to surgical instrument count protocols.

Fault Assessment

Party at Fault:

Dr. Paul Reynolds for failing to ensure proper removal of all instruments.

River Valley Medical Center for lack of oversight and procedural adherence.

Client at Fault: No evidence indicates any fault or contribution from the client.

Additional Information Needed

1. Full findings from the hospital’s internal investigation.

2. Statements from the operating room staff regarding adherence to surgical protocols.

3. Detailed records of financial losses, including medical bills, lost wages, and additional expenses

4. Follow-up reports from psychological counseling sessions to document emotional distress.

Incident Timeline

September 5, 2024: : Initial surgery and hospitalization.

September 20, 2024: Corrective surgery performed.

October–November 2024: Ongoing recovery, psychological counseling, and follow-up care.

Type Of Incident

Nature: Medical malpractice – retained surgical instrument

Next Steps for Review:

1. Review Evidence: Assess medical records, hospital documentation, and internal investigation findings

2. Evaluate Liability: Confirm fault with the surgeon and hospital staff, focusing on procedural lapses.

3. Document Losses: Collect evidence of medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional suffering.

4. Consult Expert Witnessesn: Engage medical professionals to provide expert opinions on standard surgical practices and the negligence involved.

5. Explore Settlements: Investigate the hospital’s liability insurance coverage and willingness to settle.

Incident Timeline

Prepared For: Attorney Case Review.

Prepared By: LawyersNearMe.Ai

Client Name: Sarah Thompson (+1 (770) 555-8723 )

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