Hospital malpractice led to child's death, suit says

There is nothing more anxiety-producing for a parent in Massachusetts than an ill child. Those with no medical background are often left hoping that medical care providers take appropriate measures to adequately diagnose and treat their child. Unfortunately, hospital malpractice can result in an overlooked diagnosis, leading to the severe injury or death of a patient. One woman claims that such negligence led to the death of a young out-of-state boy.

According to papers filed with the court, the child was taken to the hospital in Sept. 2014. At the time, he was experiencing stomach pain, vomiting and nausea. Although the suit alleges that no blood tests were administered, the boy was diagnosed with mononucleosis and enlarged lymph nodes. He was then sent home.

Unfortunately, the boy returned to the hospital approximately four days later, experiencing cardiac arrest. At that time, tests revealed a diagnosis of leukemia. The diagnosis reportedly came too late, and the patient was given no chance of surviving. The decision was made to remove life support measures. He soon passed away.

There is nothing worse than the loss of a child. For many, the knowledge that a child's death may have been caused by hospital malpractice only worsens the grief. In addition to their emotions, family members must also deal with the funeral expenses and medical bills related to their loss. As a result, many people seek financial relief in a Massachusetts civil court. A successfully presented case could result with an award of damages that could help with the expenses stemming from the loss while also potentially providing family members with the comfort in knowing that negligent parties will be held accountable.

Source: madisonrecord.com, "Alton Memorial named in medical malpractice complaint", March 10, 2015