VIC Nurse Incorrectly Administered Tetanus - Liable for Costs Due to Negligence?

[Corinne]

Hi,

I have bursitis in my left shoulder after a nurse incorrectly administered a tetanus and rabies vaccination 6 weeks ago.

Are they liable for the medical costs that will be incurred to fix it due to negligence? i.e pain/anti-inflammatory medication, steroid injections and physio.

Thanks

 

[Rod]

What do you mean by "incorrectly administered a tetanus and rabies vaccination"

Were you supposed to have this vaccination or a different shot of some kind?

Did she inject the right shot but incorrectly perform the injection? If so, what was incorrect about it?

 

[Sophea]

Simply being unhappy with the outcome of treatment does not necessarily give rise to negligence, more information would be helpful. Also have a read of this: Medical Negligence Claims in Australia - Common Questions - Legal Blog - LawAnswers.com.au

 

[Corinne]

Sorry I thought people may have understood the correct procedure for injections, seeing as you will have had them at some stage or another throughout your life.

When you have an injection of any kind in your arm, it is to be administered into your deltoid muscle only, not anywhere else.

Above your deltoid muscle is what's called a bursa. A bursa is a fluid filled sac that assists movement and prevents friction. Needles are not supposed to enter this sac.

Bursitis after an injection occurs when an incompetent nurse stabs your bursa instead of the deltoid muscle, causing bursitis. i.e negligence.

This is not unhappiness after treatment, it is injury as a result of poor treatment.

 

[Rod]

I've just learnt some anatomy!

There is a possibility they are legally responsible for your injury.

Recommend you contact the centre concerned and give them the opportunity to cooperate and help you. If that fails your next step is to see a lawyer.

 

[Tim W]

Sorry I thought people may have understood the correct procedure for injections, seeing as you will have had them at some stage or another throughout your life.

I have also been to the dentist many times, but that doesn't mean I know anything about the correct way to drill teeth.

As to your matter - start by making contact with the hospital/ provider and see what they say.
Understand that junior grade front counter or call centre staff will not be able to help you - they don't have the authority.
Understand this also - if you go and get treated at your own expense
and then just front up at the counter with a bundle of receipts, expecting to be reimbursed there and then, then you will be disappointed.

Bringing an action against a hospital is not really a DIY thing.
I suggest most strongly that you seek advice from a lawyer who works in the field of medical negligence without delay.