Shelly Law Offices, LLCShelly Law Offices, LLC2024-03-01T06:31:22Zhttps://www.shelly-law.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1602394/2020/11/cropped-apple-touch-icon-32x32.pngOn Behalf of Shelly Law Offices, LLChttps://www.shelly-law.com/?p=487242024-02-27T06:31:37Z2024-03-01T06:31:22ZIgnoring patient history
One common error is not looking carefully at a patient's medical history before writing a prescription or dismissing certain symptoms when coming to a conclusion. If a doctor does not know about a patient's past bad reactions to certain drugs, they might give them something that worsens their condition or even causes a dangerous allergic reaction.
Not talking enough with patients
Good communication between doctors and patients is important. Negligent doctors might rush through appointments without explaining what a medicine is for, how much to take or what side effects to watch out for. This leaves patients in the dark and unable to make informed choices about their health.
Relying too much on technology
While electronic systems can make prescribing easier, they are not perfect. Negligent doctors might rely too heavily on these systems, not paying enough attention to important details or blindly following computer suggestions without thinking about what is best for each patient. This can lead to mistakes that put patients at risk.
Forgetting to follow up
After giving a prescription, doctors need to keep track of how their patients are doing and check in regularly. Negligent doctors might skip this step, leaving patients without the support they need. Without regular check-ups, problems with the medicine or bad reactions might go unnoticed until it is too late.
Prescription errors can cause health issues that stay with an individual throughout their whole life. Healthcare providers should take proactive steps to prevent medical malpractice and improve patient outcomes.]]>On Behalf of Shelly Law Offices, LLChttps://www.shelly-law.com/?p=487232024-02-12T10:33:22Z2024-02-15T10:33:02ZContinuity of care disruptions
A notable issue arising from high turnover rates in nursing homes is the disruption of continuity in care. Residents often form bonds with caregivers, relying on consistent and familiar faces for their daily needs. When staff turnover is frequent, these relationships can suffer, leading to emotional distress and anxiety among residents. New caregivers may also lack familiarity with residents' specific needs and preferences, resulting in suboptimal care and potential health risks.
Training and skill deficiencies
Constant turnover in nursing home staff can also contribute to training and skill deficiencies among caregivers. New personnel may not receive thorough training due to time constraints. This can create gaps in their understanding of proper care protocols. This lack of training can compromise the quality of medical assistance, medication management and other aspects of caregiving.
Low morale and burnout
While high turnover rates in nursing homes affect residents, they also impact the morale and well-being of the nursing home staff. Constantly training new employees and dealing with a revolving door of colleagues can lead to burnout among existing staff members. Burnout, in turn, diminishes the quality of care given, as exhausted caregivers may struggle to maintain the same level of attentiveness and compassion the profession demands.
According to Skilled Nursing News, American nursing homes have a median turnover rate of 94%. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach, including improved recruitment and retention strategies, enhanced training programs and more supportive work environments in nursing homes.]]>On Behalf of Shelly Law Offices, LLChttps://www.shelly-law.com/?p=487222024-02-01T06:45:03Z2024-02-06T06:44:49ZDriver's education courses
The fatal crash rate among teenagers is nearly three times that of drivers over 20. Therefore, the first thing you should do is enroll your teenager in a comprehensive driver's education course. These courses cover important topics such as traffic rules, defensive driving techniques and the dangers of distracted driving. Your teenager will receive a solid understanding of the responsibilities that come with being behind the wheel.
Building confidence on the road
Once your teenager completes the formal education, provide ample opportunities for hands-on practice. Regular practice with a licensed adult allows them to apply the theoretical knowledge gained in driver's education courses. Gradually increase the complexity of driving scenarios to help them build confidence and enhance their ability to make quick and safe decisions on the road.
Setting clear boundaries
Establish clear rules for your teenager when they get behind the wheel. Emphasize the importance of wearing seat belts, following speed limits and avoiding distractions, such as texting or talking on the phone. Communicate the consequences of breaking these rules to reinforce the importance of responsible driving behavior.
Understanding the dangers of impaired driving
One non-negotiable rule should include avoiding impaired driving. Communicate the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Encourage your teenagers to plan for alternative transportation options if they find themselves in a situation where they cannot drive safely.
Become a powerful role model for your teenagers. They are more likely to adopt safe driving practices when they observe responsible behavior from you.]]>On Behalf of Shelly Law Offices, LLChttps://www.shelly-law.com/?p=487212024-01-31T15:48:14Z2024-02-05T08:19:17ZExplaining the risks
Start the dialogue by presenting facts and statistics associated with teen driving. Raw data sets the stage for why this subject is so important. Teenagers often feel invincible, so it is helpful to ground the conversation in reality. Share information about how inexperience, distractions and recklessness lead to danger. Emphasize that safe driving is not just about their well-being but also that of others on the road.
Setting expectations
Be clear that unsafe driving will result in the revocation of driving privileges. They must obey speed limits, wear seat belts and avoid distractions like texting or eating behind the wheel. Confirm that your child understands the consequences of not following the rules.
Encouraging communication
Create an environment where adolescents feel comfortable discussing their driving experiences and concerns. Insist that they ask questions and express any anxieties they might have. By keeping the lines of dialogue open, you can address issues as they arise and provide ongoing guidance.
Discussing peer pressure
Peer pressure often influences a teenager's behavior. Address the value of independent thinking and resisting the urge to show off or cave to social influences, especially while driving.
By approaching this matter with openness and understanding, teens are likely to become responsible and cautious drivers. As a role model, your involvement and guidance are more instrumental than you may realize.]]>On Behalf of Shelly Law Offices, LLChttps://www.shelly-law.com/?p=487202024-01-19T07:06:55Z2024-01-24T07:06:40ZUnderstanding vacuum extraction
Vacuum extraction is a medical procedure used during childbirth to assist in the delivery of the baby. It involves attaching a vacuum cup to the baby's head, using suction to help guide the baby through the birth canal. This technique is typically employed when there are complications during labor. For example, prolonged second-stage labor or fetal distress.
In some cases, medical professionals may fail to exercise caution and competence during the procedure. Problems can arise if the doctor fails to properly position the vacuum cup, leading to incorrect placement or detachment during the procedure. Medical professionals must closely monitor the mother and baby's condition during vacuum extraction. They also need to recognize signs of distress and communicate with the healthcare team properly.
Consequences of negligence
When medical professional negligence occurs during vacuum extraction, it can have severe consequences for both the mother and the baby. These may include perineal tears, urinary incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse. Improper use of vacuum extraction can result in trauma to the baby's head, leading to skull fractures, bleeding in the brain or nerve damage. Errors during vacuum extraction can cause developmental delays, cognitive impairments and physical disabilities. According to MedlinePlus, vacuum extraction can also increase a child’s chances of struggling with jaundice.
While vacuum extraction can be a necessary and effective procedure during childbirth, medical professional negligence can lead to devastating consequences. It is important for healthcare providers to adhere to the highest standards of care and ensure proper training, communication and monitoring during these procedures.]]>On Behalf of Shelly Law Offices, LLChttps://www.shelly-law.com/?p=487192024-01-08T08:00:01Z2024-01-11T07:59:23ZWrongful death in Pennsylvania
Wrongful death is a legal term applied when someone's negligent or intentional actions result in another person's death. In Pennsylvania, car accidents claimed 1,179 lives in 2022, highlighting the potential need for families to understand their options. To pursue a wrongful death claim, certain family members, designated by state law, must act as the "personal representative" of the deceased's estate. This role typically falls to spouses, children or parents, depending on the family structure.
Seek compensation for loss
Wrongful death claims aim to compensate surviving family members for the financial and emotional losses they suffer due to their loved one's death. These losses can include:
Medical expenses: Costs associated with the deceased's final medical care before passing
Lost income: The deceased's future earnings potential that the family now lacks
Funeral and burial expenses: Costs related to laying the deceased to rest
Pain and suffering: The emotional anguish endured by surviving family members due to the loss
Evidence plays an important role in supporting a wrongful death claim. Police reports, accident scene photos, witness testimonies and expert analysis can help establish the other driver's negligence and link it to your loved one's death.
The aftermath of a car accident is a deeply emotional and challenging time. By understanding your options and knowing how to proceed, you can navigate the path of wrongful death claims with informed decisions and a focus on healing. The road ahead may be long, but remember, with courage and resilience, you can honor your loved one's memory and build a brighter future for yourself and your family.]]>On Behalf of Shelly Law Offices, LLChttps://www.shelly-law.com/?p=487172023-12-20T10:00:56Z2023-12-25T10:00:35ZVisual distractions
In 2019, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 3,142 people died in car accidents involving driver distraction, and many of these accidents involved visual distractions. Visual distractions divert your eyes from the road. This category includes activities such as texting, adjusting the GPS or searching for items within the vehicle.
Manual distractions
Manual distractions involve activities that take your hands off the steering wheel. Examples include eating, grooming or reaching for items in the backseat.
Cognitive distractions
Cognitive distractions affect your mental focus on driving. Daydreaming, engaging in deep conversations or feeling preoccupied with personal matters are examples. Mental distractions can impair decision-making and reaction times, leading to an increased likelihood of accidents.
Auditory distractions
Auditory distractions involve sounds that divert your attention from the road. Loud music, talking on the phone without a hands-free device or listening to distracting podcasts can compromise your ability to hear important auditory cues, such as sirens or honking horns.
Electronic device distractions
The use of electronic devices while driving is a major contributor to distracted driving incidents. Texting, talking on the phone or using mobile apps diverts attention from the road. Even hands-free devices can be problematic, as they may lead to cognitive distractions.
Passenger-related distractions
Interactions with passengers can also result in distraction. Engaging in heated discussions, tending to the needs of children or pets in the car or turning to speak to passengers can divert attention away from safe driving practices.
While you can do your best to avoid distracted driving, others are not as diligent. If you sustained injuries in an accident involving distracted driving, take steps to protect your interests.]]>On Behalf of Shelly Law Offices, LLChttps://www.shelly-law.com/?p=487162023-12-11T07:18:47Z2023-12-14T07:18:18ZInitial medical treatment
Motor vehicle accidents are the most common cause of SCIs (39%), followed by falls (32%) and assaults (13.5%). To address an SCI, the physician stabilizes the patient to prevent further damage.
Next, the provider may conduct emergency medical interventions. Treatments may include immobilization, surgery to remove bone fragments or foreign objects and care for coexisting injuries.
Long-term rehabilitation
Successful SCI treatment requires rehabilitation to enhance independence and quality of life. Your healthcare team may recommend physical therapy, occupational therapy and other specialized interventions. These treatments help patients regain strength, improve mobility and adapt to the challenges of the injury.
Prescription medications
Medications can manage symptoms and complications of SCIs. Your healthcare provider may prescribe pain medications, muscle relaxants or other drugs.
Assistive and adaptive devices
Assistive devices allow individuals with SCIs to navigate daily life. Examples include such as wheelchairs, braces and communication aids.
Adaptive technologies continue to advance. These innovative solutions can enhance independence and functionality.
Possible complications
Nervous system complications may include chronic pain, muscle spasms and changes in sensation. Individuals with SCIs can also face respiratory challenges, including difficulty breathing and infections.
In addition, SCIs can impact cardiovascular health, causing issues such as low blood pressure and a higher risk of blood clots.
It is also important to address the psychological impact of an SCI. Patients commonly face mental health challenges like depression and anxiety. Talk to your healthcare team to connect with psychological resources such as therapy.
Managing an SCI requires a holistic, multidisciplinary approach. Medical interventions, rehabilitation and ongoing support can help you regain function and quality of life.]]>On Behalf of Shelly Law Offices, LLChttps://www.shelly-law.com/?p=487142023-12-08T09:25:33Z2023-12-13T09:25:09ZWhy the ruling matters
The ruling's importance lies in its potential to unveil important information about the events leading to the wrongful death. Administrative notes often contain details that reveal the actions and decisions made by healthcare professionals. This transparency is necessary for families seeking answers and accountability.
The value of administrative notes
These notes can serve as an important piece of evidence. They offer insights into the patient's care. That includes treatment plans and any deviations from standard procedures. Such details can establish a link between alleged medical errors and the tragic outcome. By uncovering this evidence, the legal process gains a valuable tool in building a comprehensive case.
Empowering grieving families
For family members mourning the loss of loved ones, navigating the legal process can be overwhelming. Recognizing the importance of evidence, such as administrative notes, is important. Seeking support from knowledgeable professionals can make a significant difference in the pursuit of justice. This ruling emphasizes the importance of collaborating with skilled individuals who can navigate the legal landscape and ensure due diligence.
In 2022, Pennsylvania acute care facilities saw a 7.7% increase in serious events to patients and an 11.1% increase in high-harm incidents. These types of cases require a dedicated effort to unveil every detail, providing closure for grieving families and holding accountable those responsible.]]>On Behalf of Shelly Law Offices, LLChttps://www.shelly-law.com/?p=487122023-11-22T05:29:44Z2023-11-27T05:29:20ZExtreme change in once-stable traits
One of the most striking outcomes of a TBI is the change in an individual's personality traits. A once calm and collected person may become irritable, aggressive or very impulsive.
This shift can be confusing for both the individual experiencing the changes and those close to them. Loved ones may struggle to reconcile the person they knew with the transformed version that shows up after the injury.
Worse mood and emotion regulation
The emotional landscape of an individual comes from the functioning of their brain. Mood swings, emotional extremes and an inability to regulate emotions can become common after a TBI.
Previously easy-going individuals may find themselves grappling with anger or sadness. 8.3% of American adults have experienced a major depressive episode as of 2021. These kinds of emotional issues can lead to strained relationships and social isolation.
Cognitive impairments
Beyond the obvious changes in behavior and emotions, TBIs can also lead to cognitive impairments. Memory lapses, difficulty concentrating and poor problem-solving abilities become struggles in everyday life. The person who once handled complex tasks may now find simple activities intimidating.
Understanding the huge impact on personality is a step toward fostering empathy and support for those undergoing this journey. People can then pave the way for a more compassionate and informed approach to rehabilitation and recovery.]]>