Objects Left in the Body After Surgery: When It Becomes Medical Malpractice

Key Takeaways Objects like sponges or needles left in the body after surgery can cause severe pain, infections, or even organ damage. These errors usually happen due to failures in counting protocols, miscommunications, or disruptions during surgery. Common items left behind include sponges, needles, and small instruments, with sponges being the most problematic. Retained surgical… read more

Error of Omission vs Commission in Medical Malpractice Cases

Key Takeaways Omission errors involve failing to take a necessary medical step. Commission errors involve taking an improper or incorrect action. Both are evaluated under the same medical standard of care. Malpractice requires proof that the error caused actual harm. Claims depend on showing that the error directly caused injury. Medical care depends on careful… read more

Measles vs Scarlet Fever: When Misdiagnosis Becomes Medical Malpractice

Key Takeaways Measles and scarlet fever can look similar early on, but their symptoms, causes, and treatments differ. Measles usually starts with a cough, runny nose, and eye irritation, followed by a blotchy rash. Scarlet fever often begins with a sore throat, fever, and a rough, sandpapery rash. A delayed or incorrect diagnosis can worsen… read more

Common Medical Laboratory Errors That Can Harm Patients in Oregon

Key Takeaways Many lab errors occur before testing begins, especially during sample collection, labeling, and handling. Mislabeling or specimen mix-ups can lead to incorrect diagnoses, delayed care, or unnecessary treatment. Faulty equipment, poor calibration, and contamination can produce false results with serious consequences. Delayed or unclear communication of critical lab results can prevent timely treatment… read more

How Long Can You Be in a Coma After a Severe Injury in Oregon?

Key Takeaways Most coma patients regain consciousness within 2 to 4 weeks, but some remain unresponsive for months or longer. Coma duration depends on injury severity, oxygen loss, medical response, and overall health. Prolonged unconsciousness may progress into a minimally conscious or vegetative state. Delayed diagnosis, improper monitoring, or untreated complications can extend coma duration…. read more

5 Most Common Errors in Radiology That Can Lead to Misdiagnosis and Harm

Medical imaging is fundamental to identifying illness, guiding care, and influencing long-term outcomes. When radiology mistakes happen, the impact on patients and families can be significant, affecting health, financial stability, and confidence in medical decision-making. The 5 most common errors in radiology are well-documented in the medical field and are a frequent cause of delayed… read more

How Often Is a Septal Infarct Misdiagnosed

Key Takeaways Septal infarcts often present with subtle symptoms like fatigue or nausea, complicating diagnosis. EKG changes may be mild or unclear, increasing risk of missed infarct diagnosis. Misdiagnosis occurs with single-test reliance or failure to repeat evaluations over time. Heart attacks are among the most commonly misdiagnosed conditions in emergency departments. Malpractice requires proving… read more

Types of Negligence in Nursing That Can Lead to Medical Malpractice Claims

Nursing negligence is at the heart of many medical malpractice claims because nurses are responsible for providing the kind of continuous care that ties together vital signs, medications, and changes in a patient’s condition. Patients can be seriously harmed by misjudgments or missed details long before clear red flags appear. Our Portland medical malpractice lawyers… read more

How Often Is Breast Cancer Misdiagnosed?

How often is breast cancer misdiagnosed? is a question we hear far too often from patients and families who are left wondering whether critical warning signs were missed. Breast cancer misdiagnosis continues to be a serious concern in Portland, Oregon, particularly when imaging results are misread or follow-up care is delayed. As Portland medical malpractice… read more

Can You Sue If You Wake Up During Surgery? What Patients in Oregon Should Know

Waking up during a surgical procedure is something most people never imagine happening. For those who experience it, the moment can be confusing, frightening, and difficult to process long after the surgery ends. It is common for patients to ask Can you sue if you wake up during surgery?, especially when the experience leaves behind… read more