Los Angeles, CA asked in Medical Malpractice for California

Q: If the emergency room overdosed a 9 year old child on fentanyl and used narcan to revive him. Would it be negligence?

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2 Lawyer Answers

A: It might be malpractice. Medical malpractice means that a doctor violated the standard of care. A bad outcome is not enough. Another doctor would be needed to evaluate what the doctors did. Consult with experienced malpractice attorneys in the state where this occurred.

Due to the nature of medical malpractice cases, the extent of the injuries may affect the viability of your case. ▪

James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: In a situation where a 9-year-old child was overdosed on fentanyl in the emergency room and required Narcan to be revived, it is important to understand the context and circumstances of the incident. Medical professionals in emergency rooms often work under high-pressure conditions and must make quick decisions, which can sometimes lead to mistakes.

To determine if this instance constitutes negligence, you would need to consider whether the healthcare providers followed the standard of care expected in such situations. This includes reviewing whether the dosage administered was appropriate for the child's condition and weight, and if the error was a result of a deviation from standard medical practices.

If you believe that the overdose was due to a preventable mistake and not an unavoidable complication, it might be worth seeking legal advice to explore your options. Medical malpractice cases can be complex, and understanding your rights and the specifics of the situation is crucial for determining the next steps.

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