Refused Blood Transfusion in Arizona What happened next

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the complexities of holding healthcare providers accountable for negligence in Arizona? You’re not alone; many face similar challenges across the state. Understanding the legal landscape is crucial for navigating these issues effectively. This article will explore how the Estate of Reinen v. Northern Arizona Orthopedics case offers insights into resolving such matters through legal means.

Situation

Specific Circumstances

In Arizona, a young man named Jared Reinen was rollerblading when he had a severe accident that broke his leg. Jared was a Jehovah’s Witness, and because of his religious beliefs, he did not want to receive blood transfusions, which made his medical care more complicated. He was taken to a hospital where doctors and nurses tried to treat him as best as they could while respecting his wishes. Over time, though, Jared’s condition got worse. He was in and out of the hospital several times and sadly, he passed away. After his death, Jared’s family, or “estate,” filed a lawsuit against the doctors and the hospital, saying they didn’t take good enough care of him.

Verdict

The court decided in favor of Jared’s estate, meaning they agreed with Jared’s family. The court found that the healthcare providers did not meet the required standard of care, which contributed to Jared’s worsening condition and death. The court also identified issues with how the jury was instructed, especially related to the assumption of risk, and ordered a new trial. This decision was recorded under case number CV-98-0411-PR.

Solution

Immediate Actions

If you find yourself in a situation where you feel a doctor has been negligent, the first thing you should do is gather all medical records and documentation related to the treatment. This includes any notes, prescriptions, or communication with the healthcare provider. It’s important to have a clear record of what happened and when. Also, consider getting a second opinion from another medical professional to confirm any medical errors or misjudgments.

Filing a Lawsuit

To file a lawsuit, you will need to prepare a legal document called a “complaint.” This document should clearly state your allegations against the healthcare provider and include all relevant facts and evidence. It’s advisable to consult with a lawyer who specializes in medical malpractice cases to help you draft and file this complaint. The complaint must be filed in the appropriate court, and there are often deadlines (statutes of limitations) for when you can file, so it’s important to act promptly.

Negotiation and Settlement

Before going to trial, it might be beneficial to attempt a settlement. This involves negotiating with the healthcare provider or their insurance company to reach an agreement without going to court. A settlement can save time and legal costs. To negotiate effectively, have a clear idea of what you believe is fair compensation and be prepared to present your evidence. An experienced attorney can be invaluable in these negotiations, helping you achieve a resolution that acknowledges the harm done while avoiding the uncertainties of a trial.

FAQ

What is negligence?

Negligence is when someone doesn’t do something they should, and because of that, another person gets hurt. For example, if a doctor doesn’t follow the right steps to take care of a patient, and the patient gets worse, that might be negligence.

Who is the plaintiff?

In this case, the plaintiff is the Estate of Jared M. Reinen. This means Jared’s family or representatives are the ones bringing the lawsuit to court on his behalf.

Who is the defendant?

The defendants in this case are Northern Arizona Orthopedics, some doctors, and Flagstaff Medical Center. These are the people or organizations Jared’s family believes did not provide the right medical care.

What was the injury?

Jared Reinen broke his leg, specifically his femur, while rollerblading. This injury led to more health problems, and unfortunately, he passed away later.

What is proximate cause?

Proximate cause is the main reason something bad happened. In legal terms, it means the direct cause of an injury or harm. It’s like saying, “This action directly led to this result.”

What is assumption of risk?

Assumption of risk is when someone understands there could be danger or harm in doing something, but they choose to do it anyway. In a lawsuit, it can be a defense saying the injured person knew the risks involved.

What is expert testimony?

Expert testimony is when someone who knows a lot about a particular subject gives their opinion in court. This person is called an expert witness and helps the jury understand complex information.

What is a directed verdict?

A directed verdict is when a judge decides the outcome of a case instead of the jury. This happens only if the judge believes there’s no way a jury could come to a different conclusion based on the evidence.

What is a statute?

A statute is a written law made by the government. It tells people what they can and cannot do, and it guides courts in deciding legal cases.

What is a jury instruction?

A jury instruction is advice a judge gives to the jury about the laws that apply to the case they are deciding. The instructions help the jury understand how to look at the evidence and make their decision.