What Are the Most Common Medical Errors?

Published on September 28, 2022

The most common medical errors include improper testing procedures, surgical errors, medication errors, misdiagnoses, and early hospital release. A medical error should never happen since healthcare providers hold a general and medical duty of care. Failing to meet these duties can lead to a medical malpractice case on behalf of injury victims or, in matters involving death, surviving family members.

In this article, an Arizona medical malpractice lawyer addresses five of the most common medical errors and what legal options are available if you suspect that you or your loved one are victims of negligence or abuse.

Error 1. Improper Testing Procedures

Laboratory test errors affect how licensed medical providers administer medications and treat patients. Sometimes, physicians fail to order the proper test, administer it improperly, or misinterpret results. Healthcare providers have a duty of care to administer these tests properly.

Error 2. Surgical Errors

Poor communication or training can result in doctors operating on the wrong area of the body. Other forms of medical malpractice include performing surgery on the wrong patient or even performing the incorrect procedure altogether. These situations should never happen while under medical care.

Error 3. Medication Errors

Medication errors involve prescribing or administering the incorrect medication or dosage. It can also occur when the medication is prescribed or administered without considering the patient’s allergies or drug interactions. A medication error can also result from patients being unaware of side effects.

Error 4. Missed or Delayed Diagnoses

Delayed or missed diagnoses can result in preventable injuries or death. Medical malpractice happens when a physician or hospital negligently fails to diagnose an issue that should have been discovered. Consequently, the patient’s condition worsens due to the wrong procedure, delayed therapy, or no treatment at all.