Conditions Resulting in Persistent Vegetative State February 9, 2018.
There are three classifications of unconsciousness which can impact victims who suffer any type of traumatic brain injury. These are known as coma, vegetative state, and minimally conscious state. Any one of these conditions may lead to death. The longer someone remains in a minimally conscious state, the higher the likelihood of slipping into a persistent vegetative state, or a coma, ultimately minimizing the potential for recovery.
Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries
Each level of unconsciousness can be tied back to oxygen deprivation. Oxygen deprivation can lead to serious issues; even when someone comes out of a coma, or recovers from a minimally conscious state, they will likely have brain damage.
Some of the causes of traumatic brain injuries that can be tied to persistent vegetative state include:
- Surgical errors
- Anesthesia Accidents
- Auto accidents
- Gunshot wounds
- Medical errors made during the birthing process (birth injury)
- Falls on worksites, or down stairs
- Blood clots (from disease or accident)
- Blows to the head
Caring for Patients in a Persistent Vegetative State
Patients who are in comas, or persistent vegetative states, require extensive care. In most cases, they will require catheterization, a feeding tube, and oftentimes, a tracheotomy tube. Consistent nursing care is a must; this means thousands of dollars in specialized medical care. While this type of treatment may be given at home, in many cases, your loved one will be cared for in a skilled nursing facility or hospital. Since most patients who are in persistent vegetative states ultimately pass as a result of their injuries, the trauma for a family is serious.
Neglect, Reckless Behavior, or Medical Malpractice
There are numerous incidents which can result in a loved on being in a persistent vegetative state. However, if your loved one is injured because of negligence, carelessness, or is a victim of medical malpractice, you should not have to bear the financial burden of their care. Since the chances of recovery from persistent vegetative state are minimal, you may also have to consider hospice care, adding thousands of dollars in additional medical costs.
In most cases, a thorough investigation of the causes of the injury that resulted in their current medical condition will be necessary. This is because insurance companies who represent the person responsible for the injuries will do everything possible to deflect accountability.
Working with a Personal Injury Attorney
When your loved one is in a persistent vegetative state due to someone’s negligence, you should speak with a personal injury attorney in Ohio. Whether their current condition is due to a car accident that was someone else’s fault, an assault that resulted in serious brain injury, or medical malpractice, you may be able to recover financially for the costs of their care, and other expenses.
If your loved one is in a persistent vegetative state, or has died after being in such a state, and the original cause was medical malpractice, trauma, or assault, The Mellino Law Firm welcomes you to contact our Cleveland, Ohio, office with any questions you may have. Call now at (440) 333-3800.
