Failure to Remove Patient's Oxygen Mask Causes Severe Burns

In Detroit, Michigan last week, Valerija Milosevic, 75, was recovering from a heart attack in the ICU at Henry Ford Macomb Hospital in Clinton Township.  While attempting to get of her hospital, Milosevic fell, breaking her nose and gashing her forehead.  Medical staff began treating those injuries, including a cut above her eyebrow that required 20 stitches.  The medical staff, however, failed to remove Milosevic's oxygen mask prior to attempting to cauterize the cuts.  As a result, a "fire burst" occurred, severely burning Milosevic's face.  Milosevic has not yet regained consciousness since the fire.  Medical professionals inside the room during the procedure also suffered minor injuries.  As reported in the Detroit News, a hospital spokeswoman expressed apologies to the family and noted that the hospital was "assuming all accountability for the incident." 

Tragically, fires in hospitals and, in particular, the operating room are an all too common occurrence, often resulting in severe burns or even death.   If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of a hospital or operating room fire, contact the attorneys at Silverman, Thompson, Slutkin & White at 410-385-2225.