OMW Obtains Defense Verdict for Anesthesiologist / CRNA
February 16, 2023
Plaintiff claimed that the Defendants negligently administered anesthesia, causing injuries that ultimately lead to her husband’s death. In particular, Plaintiff claimed that the CRNA gave an inappropriate amounts of drugs, which caused cardiac and respiratory issues during knee surgery. She further claimed that the CRNA failed to monitor the patient following the administration of drugs, thus missing signs of an impending cardiorespiratory collapse. Then, when the patient did code, Plaintiff claimed that the CRNA and anesthesiologist failed to appropriately run the code. Specifically, she claimed the drugs provided were incorrect and untimely. Notably, Plaintiff claimed that the providers failed to intubate the patient during the code for around 10 minutes.
The Defendants argued that the administration of spinal anesthesia and other drugs were appropriate under the circumstances. The patient’s vital signs showed expected changes based upon the administration of drugs throughout the procedure. There were no “red flags” suggestive of a cardiorespiratory collapse. Specifically, the EKG did not display any concerning findings, nor did any monitor alarms sound prior to the sudden arrest. When the arrest occurred, the Defendants worked as a team to administer the appropriate medications, provide chest compressions, and nasally intubated the patient in a timely fashion.
Medical experts from Columbia University (New York) and Northwestern University (Chicago) testified for the parties. Each expert maintained their disclosed opinions related to the treatment provided.
The jury deliberated, ultimately finding for the Defendants on all claims. No appeal was taken.