A senior citizen patient went on a verbal rampage against the hospital and its doctor-owner because he did not receive the desired treatment result.

Bacterial infection could result in complications. In this case, it turned out to be the cause of a fiercely fought court battle between patient and the doctor.

A young girl suffered from persistent fever and was taken to the hospital where she was diagnosed as a case of brancho pneumonia. She visited the hospital again as fever did not subside even after a week or so. Some more tests were performed which reported vasico uretery reflex (VUR) coupled with cystitis, hydronephrosis and hydroureter problems.

The patient, a 22-year old young man – a known case of mental retardation – was taken to the hospital in a severely dehydrated condition with low grade fever and difficulty in breathing. In past, he was treated for pulmonary tuberculosis at other hospitals.

Informed consent seems to be the proverbial Achilles Heel for healthcare providers. It isn’t surprising then that about two-thirds of litigations are on this procedural aspect, which ironically, could be easily avoided.

Experience and acumen of the operating surgeon is one the important aspects during a procedure. Maintaining medical records correctly, and taking informed consent from patient / attendants is second most crucial non-medical & procedural aspect while providing care. None of these aspects were adhered to in this case.

The patient was taken to the hospital with complains of wheeziness and lack of movement in both lower limbs. She was diagnosed with multiple life-threatening conditions - respiratory failure, bilateral pneumonitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and pulmonary & acute renal failure.