Maryland Sepsis & Septic Shock Lawyers
When an infection occurs, the body will take measures to fight it. When the body does not respond properly to an infection, though, it can have dire consequences.
That’s what happens in the case of sepsis. Sepsis occurs when the body responds to an infection and damages its own tissues in the process. This leads to organs that decrease in function.
Sepsis is a potentially life-threatening condition that may progress to septic shock. This is a dramatic drop in blood pressure that can be deadly. For the best chances for survival, early diagnosis and treatment is absolutely critical. Treatment often includes antibiotics and IV fluids.
Sepsis can be caused by medical malpractice. Negligent practices can cause a person to develop sepsis while in a hospital. If this occurs, seek legal representation as soon as possible. Contact the Maryland sepsis & septic shock lawyers at Wais, Vogelstein, Forman, Koch & Norman. Our team is knowledgeable about sepsis and will be able to help you proceed with your claim.
Symptoms of Sepsis
Sepsis can cause the following symptoms:
- Rapid breathing
- Increased heart rate
- Shortness of breath
- Shivering or feeling very cold
- Clammy or sweaty skin
- Fever
- Disorientation
- Extreme pain
These symptoms mark the first stage of sepsis. Sepsis occurs over the course of three stages. The second stage is severe sepsis, which involves organ failure. At this stage, symptoms may include the following:
- Decreased urination
- Low platelet count
- Breathing problems
- Irregular heartbeat
- Extreme weakness
- Skin discoloration
- Chills
- Change in mental status
- Unconsciousness
The third and final stage of sepsis is septic shock. The symptoms are the same as severe sepsis. In roughly 50% of cases, septic shock will lead to death.
Sepsis often occurs in patients who are or have been recently hospitalized. Patients in an intensive care unit (ICU) are more likely to develop sepsis. Those who suffer infections of the kidney, abdominal area, or bloodstream are more likely to develop sepsis. However, any infection could lead to sepsis. Adults over the age of 65, as well as babies, pregnant women, and those with chronic medical conditions are more likely to develop sepsis.
When Is it Medical Malpractice?
Sepsis can be caused by medical malpractice if a doctor was negligent in preventing, diagnosing, or treating the condition. A medical malpractice may stem from any of the following:
- Failure to recognize sepsis
- Delay in treating sepsis
- Failure to properly inform the patient
- Failure to obtain informed consent
- Not performing the right tests to diagnose the condition
- Not administering the right antibiotics
- Not cleaning the IV lines properly
- Not providing proper fluids
Contact Us Today
Sepsis is a serious medical issue that can lead to death if not treated promptly. If a doctor neglects this condition, it can quickly lead to death.
If your or a loved one has been seriously injured or killed due to septic shock, the personal injury lawyers at Wais, Vogelstein, Forman, Koch & Norman can help. We will assess your surgical error and help you understand your rights to compensation. Call our office at 410-998-3600 to schedule a consultation today.
