Medical Malpractice Involving Premature Patient Discharge
Unfortunately, there are cases in which patients are released from the hospital sooner than they should be, sometimes just a day or two after a major medical procedure. If patients are released before they are ready, they may suffer unnecessary complications or health problems. Complications stemming from an early discharge can be classified as medical malpractice.
The medical malpractice attorneys at Zucker & Regev work to demonstrate medical malpractice involving premature patient discharge on behalf of their Brooklyn, NY, clients so they can be compensated for damages related to negligent care.
When Should a Patient Be Released from the Hospital?
The amount of time that a patient should be kept in a hospital after an illness or medical procedure varies. For many procedures, there is a standard minimum hospital stay that is recognized across the medical field. For instance, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that healthy infants remain in the hospital for 48 hours after birth.
Any medical recommendations are just general guidelines. Even if patients have reached their minimum stay, they should never be released before they show signs that they are well enough to be free of continual medical care and monitoring.
Prior to releasing patients from the hospital, there should be sufficient evidence that they have reached a certain stage of wellness or recovery. To ensure that indicators have been met and the patient can be safely released, medical professionals should:
- Perform appropriate tests to demonstrate health
- Monitor patient’s vitals to ensure stability
- Provide treatment for any underlying conditions that have been diagnosed
- Schedule necessary checkups or follow-up care
Proving Medical Malpractice
To show evidence of medical malpractice involving premature patient discharge for our Brooklyn clients, we must demonstrate two key factors:
- The premature release of the patient failed to meet the medical standard of care. In other words, a similarly trained medical professional presented with the same circumstances would have kept the patient admitted for a longer period of time.
- The patient suffered medical complications or financial losses as a result of the premature discharge.
Evidence of Medical Malpractice Involving Premature Patient Discharge
We must rely on several types of evidence to present a strong case of medical malpractice for our Brooklyn clients. Potential types of evidence in a medical malpractice case involving premature patient discharge include:
- The patient’s medical records
- Discharge paperwork
- Paperwork pertaining to resulting medical complications and treatment
- Expert witness testimony
Medical Malpractice Damages
If we are able to demonstrate medical malpractice related to premature patient discharge, our clients may collect financial compensation for a full range of damages. Areas of compensation may include:
- Medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages
- Loss of wage-earning ability
Contact Us
If you or a loved one suffered medical complications after being released from the hospital too soon, you may have a medical malpractice case. To learn more about your legal options, send a message to the legal team at the Law Firm of Zucker & Regev, or call (718) 215-9855.