Baltimore Sepsis & Septic Shock Lawyer
Sepsis is a condition that occurs when the body has an immune response to bacterial and other infections, and it is life-threatening. In most cases, when the body develops an infection, the immune system releases chemicals to try and remedy the situation and deal with the infection. When sepsis occurs, the body will release the same chemicals, but they will cause problems and the organs within the body will not function properly. Septic shock occurs when sepsis causes a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
Septic shock can be fatal for the patients that suffer from it and some people, such as elderly populations or patients recently recovering from surgery, are more at risk for it than others. Sepsis and septic shock are often caused by medical negligence. When that is the case, it is important to speak to a Baltimore septic shock lawyer that can help you claim the damages you deserve.
When are Sepsis and Septic Shock Medical Malpractice?
Sepsis and septic shock are not always a case of medical malpractice, but in some cases they are. Medical professionals must look for warning signs of septic shock, and they must know which patients are more at risk for it. When sepsis or septic shock is treated early, the patient has a much better chance of survival. Treatment often includes providing the patient with fluids and antibiotics. Any time healthcare professionals fail to recognize the signs of sepsis and septic shock, and therefore fail to treat it, it may be a case of medical malpractice.
Symptoms of Sepsis and Septic Shock
All medical professionals should be able to correctly identify the signs and symptoms of sepsis and septic shock. This is the only way they can provide timely treatment. However, it is also important that patients and their loved ones recognize the signs so they can advocate on behalf of themselves and their family. The most common signs of sepsis and septic shock include:
- Disorientation or confusion
- Confirmed or probable infection
- Extreme body temperature, such as a very high fever or excessive chills
- Shortness of breath
- Lack of normal urine stream
- Heart palpitations or an abnormally fast heart rate
- Low blood pressure
- Cool, pale skin
- Fatigue
Any time patients suffer from these symptoms, it is important medical professionals diagnose sepsis right away. A diagnosis may involve simply listening to a patient’s symptoms, and a blood test can also indicate the presence of sepsis. Once identified, physicians must then be able to provide the appropriate treatment to reduce the risk of further harm to the patient.
Our Medical Malpractice Lawyers in Baltimore Can Provide the Legal Advice You Need
Sepsis and septic shock are very serious conditions that must be addressed quickly so patients do not suffer injury or worse, wrongful death. At Wais, Vogelstein, Forman, Koch & Norman, LLC, our Baltimore medical malpractice lawyers have seen the devastating effects of these conditions and have the necessary experience to hold negligent medical professionals accountable. Call us today at 410.567.0800 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation and to learn more about how we can help.
