Epidural Administration and the Dangers Associated with Negligence

May 10, 2016 | By Colombo Law

An epidural is a spinal injection that effectively stops pain in a regional area of the body. Hundreds of thousands of epidurals are administered each year, many in hospitals throughout the state of West Virginia. The most common reason for the administration of epidurals is childbirth. However, epidurals have also been given to individuals who experience serious back pain and pain after a surgical procedure. While administering an epidural is a common practice, it takes a highly trained professional to ensure that the procedure is successful. Otherwise, the procedure could cause serious injuries. If you or your loved one has been injured from negligence related to the administration of an epidural, contact Colombo Law today.

Proper Administration

The Medical Mission Institute indicates that there are four key techniques that should be used to best ensure proper administration of an epidural, which are as follows:

• Preparation: The first technique discussed is preparing the patient for administration by informing the patient what will occur and the risks associated with providing an epidural for pain relief.
• Position: The second step is to identify the most effective position for administering the epidural. There are a few different options that the doctor should have assessed prior to administration.
• Projection: Projection is identifying the placement of the epidural need in anticipation of administration. Proper projection is essential to best ensure the epidural is administered without any mishaps.
• Puncture: After all of the above steps are completed, the epidural is administered.

Dangers of Improper Procedure

When epidurals are not administered properly, some known side effects and injuries often follow. Some common injuries include:

• Numbness or a constant tingle: If an epidural is improperly administered, there is often a feeling of numbness in the legs or feet that persist far longer than it should. This is usually a sign of nerve damage. If you or your loved one is experiencing feelings of numbness in the hours, days, or weeks following an epidural injection, you should seek medical attention to identify whether nerve damage is the true cause of the pain.
• Epidural Abscess: An epidural abscess is particular type of infection that develops near the spinal cord and other major nerves. During this time, there is a collection of pus that causes swelling in the area. It is critical that doctors identify this type of infection as prolonged identification leads to permanent nerve damage, sometimes causing loss of a bodily function.

Contact an Experienced Attorney

While epidurals are a common procedure there are many instances of negligence. If you have been injured by a incorrect epidural, you deserve compensation. For assistance in obtaining the relief you deserve, contact Colombo Law today. Our attorneys are skilled personal injury lawyers who provide quality legal representation. We serve clients throughout the state of West Virginia including Morgantown, Fairmont, Clarksburg, Bridgeport, Kingwood, Grafton, Weston, Philippi, Buckhannon, Elkins, and Parkersburg.