Claire O’Sullivan, a 38-year-old woman from Kilkenny, experienced a life-changing anaesthesia error during a routine surgery. In 2018, Claire underwent a minor surgical procedure that required general anaesthesia. However, due to improper administration of the anaesthetic, she suffered permanent nerve damage.
The error occurred when the anaesthetist, in a rush to manage multiple patients, administered an incorrect dose of anaesthetic, leading to prolonged exposure and resultant nerve damage. Claire awoke from surgery to find that she had lost sensation and mobility in her left arm. The nerve damage was severe and irreversible, affecting her daily life and ability to work as a primary school teacher.
“This error has left me in constant pain and has greatly affected my quality of life,” Claire shared. “I hope this case highlights the need for thorough training and vigilance in administering anaesthetics.”
Claire’s legal team emphasized the necessity of strict guidelines and oversight in anaesthetic procedures. The €1.5 million settlement aimed to cover her medical expenses, including ongoing treatments, pain management therapies, and rehabilitation. It also accounted for her lost income and the significant impact on her quality of life.
The hospital involved acknowledged their failure and committed to implementing more stringent anaesthetic protocols. This included additional training for anaesthetists on dosage calculations, the introduction of checklists to ensure correct administration, and increased supervision for less experienced staff.
Claire’s case underscores the critical importance of thorough training and vigilance in administering anaesthetics. It serves as a reminder that even minor errors in medical procedures can have devastating consequences. By improving these processes, hospitals can prevent such tragic outcomes and ensure the safety and wellbeing of their patients.
