Preventing a successful malpractice claim.

Abstract

All of these strategies combine to make it less likely that a suit will be filed. But the strategies of complying with the standard of care and accurately documenting that care also combine to make it less likely that a suit will be successful. Injury is just one element of a successful malpractice suit. The plaintiff's attorney must also convince the judge or jury that the defendant failed to meet the standard of care and that failure caused the patient's injury. By complying with the standards of care and documenting that care, the nurse makes it easier for his or her attorney to counter arguments that the standard of care was not met. Accurate documentation can also fortify arguments that the nurse's actions did not cause the injury. There is nothing magical about these five strategies. Nurses will recognize each as actions good nurses perform in the course of their practice. Providing good nursing care also provides the best legal protection.