In declining to hear the case, the Supreme Court upheld the “Feres Doctrine,” which prohibits active duty members of the military from suing the federal government for healthcare liability issues.
The case involved a successful appendectomy, after which the patient experienced breathing complications. While attempting to address the complications, a nurse anesthetist improperly intubated the patient by placing the breathing tube into his esophagus instead of his trachea. The patient consequently suffered brain damage and died.
The supervising nurse anesthetist admitted her error and surrendered her license.
Read the ASA release on Witt, Alexis v United States.
Related Articles on Anesthesia:
Wisconsin Surgery Center CRNA Defends Safety of Spinal Anesthesia
Patient Safety Tool: AANA’s Conscious Sedation Brochure
ASA’s Dr. John Dombrowski Discusses Pain Patch Benefits in Ladies’ Home Journal
At the Becker's 23rd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference, taking place June 11-13 in Chicago, spine surgeons, orthopedic leaders and ASC executives will come together to explore minimally invasive techniques, ASC growth strategies and innovations shaping the future of outpatient spine care. Apply for complimentary registration now.
