Legal Question in Medical Malpractice in North Carolina

Infection-Out of work for 3 months

I had my appendix removed (acute appendicitis) on August 16, 2000. I was sent home two days later and took a shower on the 4th day (as I was told to do). On the 5th day my wound became infected. i returned to the Doctor the following day and was readmitted to the hospital for two days. they gave me antibiotics and sent me home. Now the wound had to heal from the inside out. I have been out of work since 8/16/00 & probably won't go back to work until the middle of November.

Do I have any recourse for lost wages and pain & suffering against the hospital and Doctor? I aways thought that an appendix operation was a simple one, but this has turned into a ''NIGHTMARE'' for me. It has put me in the hole for at least $15,000.00, if not more. Your help will be greatly appreciated.

Thank You


Asked on 11/01/00, 8:00 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Eleanor MacCorkle Eleanor MacCorkle, Attorney at Law

Re: Infection-Out of work for 3 months

In order to recover damages for your infection, you would have to prove that the infection resulted from negligence of a health care provider, ie doctor, nurse, hospital staff. First you should determine the type of infection you contracted. Next you would need to consult with a medical expert to determine whether the infection is one which resulted from negligence. In North Carolina, you generally have 3 years from the date of negligence to sue a medical provider.

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Answered on 11/27/00, 3:50 pm


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