Evaluation of Medical Malpractice in Urology Cases Resulting in Death

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to present 96 cases evaluated by the 1st Specialization Committee of The Council of Forensic Medicine, which included medical malpractice claims about urologists resulting in death between 2010 and 2015 and to increase the awareness of urologists about medical malpractice claims. Materials and methods: The reports prepared by the 1st Specialization Committee of The Council of Forensic Medicine between 2010–2015 were reviewed retrospectively. All of the cases treated in Urology clinics, alleged medical malpractice, and resulted in death, participated in the study. Results: In this study, 96 cases were included. It was reported that there was medical malpractice in 16 (16.7%) cases. Seventy–six of the patients (79.2%) were female; the most common age range was ≥ 60 years (n:46 47.9%); the mean age was 54,90±19,59 years. Seventy–three (76%) cases were followed up under elective conditions. Complications developed in 20 (20.8%) of the cases during their treatment course. Surgical treatment was applied in 68 (70.8%) patients. Twenty (20.8%) cases were diagnosed with urinary system stone disease and 16 (16.7%) cases with benign prostatic hyperplasia. The committee attributed malpractice to the doctors most frequently due to lack of treatment (n:6, 37.5%). Conclusion: We think that a comprehensive review of the cases with medical malpractice claims will contribute to a better understanding of these cases, the improvement of the medical service provided, and public health.

Examination of the Medical Error Tendencies of Midwives and Nurses Working in Maternity Clinics

“…In obstetrics clinics, insufficient patient monitoring during labor is among the most common reasons for malpractice lawsuits and errors that could lead to medical errors [20]. Regular checks of medical devices and materials, as well as in-service training for nurses and midwives regarding device and material usage, are important [1,20].…”

“…Maternity clinics are units where patient circulation and workload are intense, unexpected emergencies can occur in both the mother and the baby, and numerous invasive procedures are performed. It is known that medical errors are most commonly observed in maternity clinics in our country and worldwide [1][2][3]. While gynecologists rank first in medical malpractice claims in gynecology clinics, nurses and midwives rank second.…”

“…The report by the WHO states that the frequency of medical errors ranges from 3.2% to 16.6% in countries such as Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, the United States and Denmark [6]. It is known that the rate of medical errors in Turkey is approximately 16.6% and that the rate of midwives and nurses being sued due to medical errors has increased by 10% in the last four years, and the leading medical errors are incorrect drug administration [1,7].…”