Pharmacy Error Injury Lawyer Blog
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected almost all aspects of society for most – if not all – Maryland residents. Since the beginning of the crisis, necessary supplies have been in short supply. Indeed, healthcare workers have been forced to re-use supplies that are designated for a single-use and even rig their own masks because supplies were so low.
Among the newly raised concerns is a potential shortage of drugs that are needed to operate ventilators. Ventilators are machines that help those with COVID-19 breath while they are unable to do so themselves. According to a recent news report, when a patient requires a ventilator, a doctor or nurse must place a tube down the patient’s throat. To do so, medical staff need to give the patient sedative medication, pain killers, and, in some cases, medication to induce temporary paralysis. Evidently, in a letter to Vice President Pence, a spokesperson for the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists explained that ventilators “will be rendered useless without an adequate supply of the medications.”
The concern is that some hospitals are seeing demand for these drugs surge upwards of 600 percent. Part of the problem is that hospitals are attempting to secure a supply of the medication before they actually need it.
The average COVID-19 patient who requires a ventilator is on the ventilator for between 10 to 14 days. Many of these medications are needed throughout that time. Thus, estimated demand can be difficult. Thankfully, thus far, there are not reports of any patient not being ventilated due to a drug shortage; however, certain parts of the country have yet to see the peak rate of infection.
COVID-19 Pharmacy Error and Medical Malpractice Lawsuits
The burden that the COVID-19 pandemic has placed on hospitals and pharmacies across the country is immense. And sadly, mistakes will be made, resulting in more prolonged hospitalizations, more severe injuries, and even death. While most medical professionals are doing everything they can to treat the sudden influx of COVID-19 patients, these men and women are overburdened and are more prone to making mistakes.
Those who have suffered as a result of a medical professional’s mistake may be entitled to compensation through a Maryland medical malpractice lawsuit. Due to the unique circumstances presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, courts will be confronted with many novel legal issues. Thus, anyone considering bringing a claim against a Maryland pharmacist or other medical professional should consult with a dedicated Maryland personal injury attorney.
Schedule a Free Consultation with a Maryland Injury Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has fallen victim to a Maryland pharmacy error, or another instance of medical malpractice, contact the lawyers at Lebowitz & Mzhen, Personal Injury Lawyers, for immediate assistance. Our team of skilled injury advocates is ready to meet with you over video or speak over the phone to discuss your case. We have successfully represented thousands of clients over more than 20 years and know what it takes to succeed on your behalf. To learn more, call 800-654-1949 to schedule a free consultation today.