Compensation for a Gentamicin Overdose
If medical practitioners administer a patient with too much gentamicin, or give it to a patient despite it being contra-indicated by other health condition, there may be grounds for a compensation claim.
Gentamicin toxicity
Gentamicin toxicity is also known as gentamicin poisoning. It happens when too much gentamicin is administered into the bloodstream, causing damage to the inner ear and/or kidney.
When gentamicin leads to inner ear damage, it is known as ototoxicity. When gentamicin leads to kidney damage, it is known as nephrotoxicity.
Alongside these complications, gentamicin toxicity can also lead to memory loss, difficulty concentrating and bouncing vision.
Preventing gentamicin toxicity
Because of the dangers of gentamicin, medical professionals must proceed with caution when administering it to a patient.
As a strong antibiotic, gentamicin should only be used if there is a clinical need to do so. This might be if the patient is allergic to other types of antibiotic, or if the infection is resistant to other types of antibiotic (such as MRSA).
Additionally, it must not be given to any patient who is known to have underlying health conditions that contraindicate the use of gentamicin. This includes patients with kidney problems.
If there is a clinical need to use gentamicin and a patient does not have a health condition that contraindicates the use of gentamicin, it may be administered. However, medical practitioners must regularly take blood samples during treatment to monitor the level of gentamicin in the body. If the level is too high, the dosage should be altered accordingly.
Gentamicin overdose
Unfortunately, there are times when a patient suffers complications as a result of gentamicin. If this happens because medical professionals did not provide an acceptable standard of care, there will be grounds for a medical negligence claim.
This might apply if:-
- Gentamicin is administered to patients with health problems – such as kidney failure – that contraindicate the use of gentamicin
- Gentamicin is administered in too large a dose with regards to the patient's weight and age
- Gentamicin levels in the blood are not monitored and adapted during treatment
Claiming compensation for gentamicin poisoning
If you or your loved one has suffered complications because of gentamicin poisoning, you should speak to a solicitor about the options available to you. If there has been a case of medical negligence, you will be entitled to pursue a claim against the party responsible. Contact us today to find out more.
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