Page 22 - Part 2 Anesthesiology Common Risk Issues

SVMIC Anesthesiology: Common Risk Issues

check that the anesthetic dosage is correct for the specific

patient and verify that the equipment is operating properly.

Distracting Devices

Anesthesia providers often find themselves with significant

down-time, especially during lengthy procedures. Accordingly,
they are tempted to use their Personal Electronic Devices (PED)

to be more productive or to just pass the time. Just like using
PEDs while driving, these devices can be a distraction and

present a significant safety risk. This potential for distraction is a
growing concern in the medico-legal arena.

In the last several years, many malpractice insurance carriers

have defended multiple lawsuits involving allegations and
evidence of distractions from the personal use of PEDs in the

OR and other patient care areas. The mere suggestion that
an anesthesia provider was distracted can negatively impact

the ability to defend the anesthesia provider. Texting, Internet
browsing, social media, personal cell phone conversations, or

playing video games may also create a negative perception
among other OR team members that the anesthesia provider

was not paying attention to the patient.

Additionally, plaintiff attorneys have no difficulty identifying

anesthesiology experts who will testify that the use of PEDs for
non-patient-related activities in the OR and other patient care

areas is well below the standard of care and contrary to the very
hallmark of a competent and professional anesthesia provider —

vigilance.

And, if you think that no one will ever discover that you were
using a PED during a procedure, you are wrong. Typically,

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