Cellphones and Medical Errors

With constant advancements in technology, including smartphones, tablets, wearable technology, digitization of records, and much more, it is easy to observe that we have an increased need to be attached to technological devices.  Of course, there are positive aspects to technology, and there are potential downsides.  In this post, our Houston medical malpractice lawyer discusses the possible risks associated with cellphones, and why their use may increase the risk of medical errors.

The Risks of Using Cellphones in Healthcare

The digitization of medical records and healthcare data has made the smartphone a go-to device for medical professionals.  Although there are many advantages to going paperless and being able to obtain healthcare data quickly, it may come at a cost.

Risk of Infection

The use of cellphones in the medical field does help to improve communication, access to guidelines, data, patient statuses, and medical updates. But cellphones also pose a significant risk to patients.  Various studies have shown that cellphones carry bacteria and viruses that may lead to infection.  Mobile phones are becoming of particular interest as studies have shown that they can spread bacteria and cause infections like staph, strep, and even the flu.  These infections can be easily complicated or turn into sepsis if germs are introduced or infection control is not managed properly.

Although medical professionals may carry their cellphones with them for most of their work day, they may not be diligent about sanitizing their phones prior to visiting a patient, or even prior to performing a medical procedure.

Distractions leading to medical errors

Perhaps of even greater concern is the potential for medical professionals to become distracted by the use of cellphones in the operating room.  We’ve all heard about the dangers of distracted driving, but what about the dangers of distracted medicine? Can cellphones create distractions that lead to medical errors?

According to an article published in “The Bulletin”, patient safety advocates have warned that there is a growing problem with distractions from cellphone use in operating rooms.  These distractions may lead to medical errors, negligence, inefficiencies, and decreased patient safety.

In 2011, there was a case that involved a 61-year-old woman who died in a Dallas medical facility during a surgery to correct an irregular heartbeat.  The patient’s surgeon later accused the anesthesiologist of failing to monitor the patient’s blood-oxygen levels for 15 to 20 minutes while surfing the web on his phone.  In more recent years, there have also been reports of surgeons using their cellphones to record video, post to social media, check their stocks, and even accept calls while an operation was underway.  Such incidents certainly suggest that distraction is a real concern for patients.

Were You Harmed by Cellphone Use?

If you have been harmed while under the care of a doctor or surgeon, of course, you want to know why.  If you are concerned that a healthcare provider’s cellphone use contributed to the harm you suffered, contact MedMalFirm.com to discuss your situation with one of our medical malpractice attorneys. Our attorneys can help review the details of your case and determine what factors led to your injuries – be it cellphones, distraction, or other factors.

To learn more about medical mistakes or medical malpractice, or to get legal guidance, fill out our online form to request a consultation.  All of our initial consultations are free, and you are under no obligation.