STROKE AND MALPRACTICE CLAIMS

We describe 15 malpractice claims that were filed after the patients h ad strokes. Both embolic and thrombotic, sterile and infected strokes led to claims. Ten of the claims alleged physician failure to protect the patient, two alleged physician failure to react as called for by s ymptoms, and three were related to medication. We conclude that physic ians should advise patients of the possibility of stroke when circumst ances warrant it, as well as documenting their judgment and suggested preventive practices. These cases further suggest that treatment decis ions supported by documented second opinions may reduce the number of malpractice claims for strokes.