Our firm successfully resolved a catastrophic medical malpractice case after physicians failed to timely recognize worsening stroke symptoms and administer the clot-busting medication tPA.
Our client arrived at the hospital with classic stroke symptoms, including confusion, slurred speech, weakness, and difficulty walking. Although his symptoms briefly improved, they quickly returned while he remained in the hospital under medical observation. Despite repeated documentation of recurrent stroke symptoms, physicians failed to activate the hospital's Stroke Code Team or administer tPA within the treatment window.
The evidence showed the hospital was a designated Comprehensive Stroke Center with a specialized team available to rapidly evaluate and treat stroke patients. Expert testimony established that timely administration of tPA would more likely than not have prevented or significantly reduced the devastating neurological injuries suffered by our client.
As a result of the untreated stroke, our client suffered permanent right-sided paralysis, speech impairment, cognitive deficits, difficulty swallowing, chronic fatigue, loss of independence, and permanent disability that forced him to close his business and rely on others for daily care.
Through litigation, we secured compensation to help provide for future medical care, rehabilitation, supportive services, lost earning capacity, and long-term financial security.