Defective medical equipment and you – advice for victims

When you’ve already been through the trauma of pain and then a diagnosis, endless hospital appointments, stress and strain on your relationships, surgery and then a slow recovery, the last thing you want is to have your recovery halted or even hindered by defective medical equipment. 

It’s a complete violation of trust, and companies like these can help you seek legal action and get the apology and compensation that you deserve. When you are given defective medical equipment that doesn’t meet the required standards, then you could experience more pain and further injuries as well as mental health issues relating to anxiety and even depression. 

Have you had to have more time off work? Has the faulty equipment and resulting injuries left your relationships strained? Are you no longer able to look after your children or provide for them? It’s a worrying time, which is why seeking legal advice should be a priority. Read on for advice for victims who have received faulty medical equipment.  

Common defective medical equipment  

Sadly, there are some pieces of medical equipment that have a reputation for problems and issues. However, that doesn’t mean that their manufacturers and suppliers are exempt from any liability. Having a faulty implant of any kind in your body is extremely dangerous and will often require further surgery to have it removed. The most common pieces of medical equipment that suffer from faults include:  

• Defibrillators 
• Contraceptive devices 
• Knee or hip replacement joints 
• Cochlear implants 
• Pace makers 

Drugs 

Faulty drugs also fall into the defective medical equipment category. When problems with the manufacturing process occur, it can create a whole host of issues for the patients affected. Perhaps the medication doesn’t work due to problems in manufacturing or they may have had an adverse effect and made your condition worse. If this is the case, speak with your attorney as soon as possible.  

So, who is to blame? 

There are a number of defendants in a defective medical equipment case. And it’s important that each one of them is held accountable, however, your attorney will guide you through the process. Those who are usually involved in cases such as these include: 

Your doctor: Did your doctor explain the possible side effects? Or inform you of the risks involved? Their recommendations resulted in the use of defective equipment and if they failed to go through the risks with you or give you adequate instructions then they could be liable. 

The manufacturer  

If the problem with the device stems from the manufacturing process, has defective parts or has issues in processing, then the manufacturer could also be liable. These large firms are responsible for ensuring all devices and medications are produced to a high standard. You may find that your compensation case is met with a team of lawyers, hired to protect the company, but don’t worry your attorney will be able to put your mind at rest.  

Once you’ve sought additional medical assistance and your health has stabilised, your next step is to speak with your attorney about the validity of your case.