What is an example of surgical malpractice?

Following improper sterilization procedures is a clear example of surgical malpractice because it directly compromises patient safety and can lead to serious infections or complications. Proper sterilization techniques are critical in preventing infections that can arise from surgical instruments or the surgical environment itself. When these protocols are not adhered to, the risk of postoperative infections increases significantly, which may lead to prolonged hospital stays, additional surgeries, or even life-threatening conditions.

In the context of surgical procedures, practitioners are expected to follow established guidelines strictly to protect patient health. Deviating from these established standards can be seen as negligence, which can provide grounds for a malpractice claim. Thus, improper sterilization not only violates medical protocols but also breaches the duty of care owed by healthcare professionals to their patients.