Albuquerque Anesthesia Error Lawyers

Anesthesia plays a critical role in modern medicine, allowing patients to undergo procedures without pain or awareness. But when anesthesia is administered improperly, the results can be catastrophic. Patients may experience severe injury, permanent disability, or even death. If you or a loved one suffered harm due to an anesthesia-related mistake, Harvey, Foote & Baker Law Firm can help you understand your legal rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Our firm is committed to protecting victims of medical negligence throughout Albuquerque, NM, and holding healthcare providers accountable for preventable errors.

Call (505) 295-2245 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation.

What is Anesthesia?

Anesthesia is a medical tool used to block pain and sensation during medical procedures. It may also induce unconsciousness, prevent movement, or help regulate breathing. There are three primary types of anesthesia:

• General Anesthesia: Puts the patient into a controlled state of unconsciousness. Used for major surgeries.
• Regional Anesthesia: Blocks sensation in a specific region of the body, such as spinal or epidural anesthesia.
• Local Anesthesia: Numbs a small area of the body, commonly used for minor procedures.

Anesthesia must be carefully calculated, administered, and monitored. Even minor mistakes in dosage or technique can result in serious complications.

Common Types of Anesthesia Errors

Anesthesia errors can occur before, during, or after a medical procedure. Some of the most common include:

• Dosage Errors: Giving too much anesthesia can cause brain damage, cardiac arrest, or overdose. Too little can cause a patient to wake up during surgery.
• Failure to Monitor Vital Signs: Anesthesiologists must track oxygen levels, heart rate, and blood pressure. Failure to monitor can lead to organ damage or death.
• Intubation Errors: Improper placement of a breathing tube can block airways, cause hypoxia, or damage the throat and lungs.
• Delayed Delivery of Anesthesia: If anesthesia is administered too late or takes too long to adjust, patients may experience pain or awareness during surgery.
• Failure to Recognize Allergies or Sensitivities: Some patients react adversely to anesthetic drugs. Failure to review medical history can lead to life-threatening reactions.
• Communication Errors: Poor communication between the anesthesiologist and the surgical team may result in preventable mistakes.
• Equipment Failures: Malfunctioning devices, such as ventilators or infusion pumps, can cause dangerous complications if not properly checked.

Common Causes of Anesthesia Errors

Medical negligence can occur for many reasons, and anesthesia errors often stem from preventable mistakes:

• Inadequate Training or Inexperience: An inexperienced anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist may make careless mistakes during complex procedures.
• Fatigue or Staffing Issues: Hospitals with staffing shortages may rely on tired or overworked providers, increasing the likelihood of errors.
• Improper Pre-Operative Evaluation: Failing to review a patient’s medications, allergies, and medical history can create avoidable risks.
• Poor Communication: Miscommunication between healthcare providers about dosage, timing, or equipment can lead to severe injury.
• Improper Equipment Maintenance: Anesthesia machines, monitors, and ventilators must be regularly inspected for safety and accuracy.
• Negligent Monitoring During Surgery: Monitoring is one of the most important responsibilities of anesthesia providers. Neglecting it—even briefly—can lead to permanent injury.

If any of these factors contributed to your injury, our Albuquerque anesthesia error lawyer can help determine whether you have a valid medical malpractice claim.

Consequences of Anesthesia Errors

Anesthesia mistakes can lead to devastating physical and emotional harm, including:

• Brain damage from lack of oxygen
• Heart attack or stroke
• Organ failure
• Nerve damage
• Birth injuries (during epidural or spinal anesthesia)
• Aspiration injuries
• Coma
• Awareness during surgery (anesthesia awareness)
• Wrongful death

Victims often face long-term medical care, rehabilitation, and significant emotional trauma.

Anesthesia Error FAQs

How do I know if my anesthesia injury was caused by negligence?

If the anesthesiologist, nurse anesthetist, or medical team failed to meet the accepted standard of care, negligence may have occurred. A lawyer can review your case and consult with experts to determine fault.

What compensation can I recover?

Victims may recover damages for medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, disability, and more.

How long do I have to file a claim in New Mexico?

Most medical malpractice claims must be filed within three years from the date of the injury, but exceptions may apply. Speak with an attorney as soon as possible.

Can anesthesia errors cause permanent damage?

Yes. Brain damage, nerve injuries, chronic pain, and long-term disability are common outcomes.

Who can be held liable?

Potentially liable parties include anesthesiologists, nurse anesthetists, surgeons, and hospitals.

What should I do after an anesthesia injury?

Seek medical attention immediately, request copies of your records, document your symptoms, and speak to a lawyer before dealing with insurance companies.

How Harvey, Foote & Baker Law Firm Can Help

Dealing with the aftermath of an anesthesia error can be overwhelming. You may be facing significant medical bills, ongoing treatment, and a long road to recovery. In such challenging times, it's crucial to have a knowledgeable attorney by your side.

Here's why you need an Albuquerque anesthesia error lawyer from Harvey, Foote & Baker Law Firm:

• Legal Expertise: Our attorneys specialize in medical malpractice cases, including anesthesia errors. We understand the complexities of New Mexico's medical malpractice laws and can navigate them on your behalf.
• Investigation and Evidence Gathering: We have the resources and expertise to thoroughly investigate your case. This includes reviewing medical records, consulting with experts, and gathering evidence to establish liability.
• Negotiation Skills: We are skilled negotiators and will work diligently to secure a fair settlement for your injuries. Our goal is to maximize your compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and suffering.
• Litigation Experience: While we strive to reach a settlement, we are fully prepared to take your case to court if necessary. Our attorneys have a strong track record of success in the courtroom.

Contact us today at (505) 295-2245 to let us help you secure the compensation you deserve.