Errors in Oxygen Administration and Mechanical Ventilation: When Does It Become Medical Negligence?

Oxygen therapy and mechanical ventilation are critical treatments for patients suffering from respiratory failure, whether in emergencies, intensive care, or surgical settings. However, when these procedures are not administered correctly, they can lead to severe complications, including brain damage, organ failure, and even death.

In Maryland and Washington D.C., medical errors related to oxygen administration and ventilator use have been the subject of multiple malpractice lawsuits.

According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), mechanical ventilation errors are among the leading causes of preventable hospital complications. This blog explores the most common mistakes in these procedures, their impact on patients, and the steps that can be taken to prevent medical negligence.

Common Errors in Oxygen Administration and Mechanical Ventilation

-Lack of Proper Monitoring

Failing to monitor oxygen levels correctly can result in hypoxemia (low oxygen in the blood) or hyperoxia (excess oxygen), both of which can lead to organ failure. Studies in Maryland and Washington D.C. have shown that improper oxygen delivery in critically ill patients increases the risk of mortality by up to 30%, according to critical care medicine journals.

-Incorrect Use of Equipment

Mechanical ventilators must be adjusted to meet each patient’s specific needs. Poor settings can cause barotrauma (lung damage due to excessive pressure) or atelectasis (lung collapse). According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), these errors significantly contribute to hospital respiratory complications.

-Intubation Errors

Misplacing the endotracheal tube can block the airway, cause internal injuries, or prevent adequate ventilation. The Joint Commission has identified a lack of training in intubation procedures as a leading cause of oxygenation failures in critical patients.

-Infections Associated with Mechanical Ventilation

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is one of the most common complications. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), up to 28% of patients requiring prolonged ventilation develop lung infections due to equipment contamination or poor hygiene protocols.

Measures to Prevent Negligence in These Procedures

Ongoing Training: Educate medical staff on using oxygen therapy and ventilators properly.

Safety Protocols: Implement standardized measures for intubation and oxygen administration.

Rigorous Monitoring: Conduct continuous checks on patients connected to mechanical ventilators.

Equipment Maintenance: Regularly inspect medical devices to prevent technical failures.

In conclusion, errors in oxygen administration and mechanical ventilation can have life-threatening consequences if not properly managed. Lack of supervision, incorrect equipment usage, and failure to follow safety protocols can constitute medical negligence, endangering patients’ lives.

If you or a loved one have suffered from oxygen or ventilator-related errors in Maryland or Washington D.C., seeking legal guidance is crucial. At Stecco Law, we are committed to defending patients’ rights affected by medical negligence and helping them obtain the justice and compensation they deserve.