When you go to a doctor’s office or the hospital for treatment, chances are you don’t actually see a doctor. Instead, you are likely to be treated by a Nurse Practitioner (“NP”). Nurse practitioners are mid-level providers. This means the NP is a licensed medical professional who obtained a bachelor and masters or doctoral degree in Nursing. NPs have less medical education and training than a doctor but can still diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications. In Arizona, a nurse practitioner can be sued and held responsible for your injury just like you could sue a doctor.
Does a Nurse Practitioner Work on Her Own?
Yes. Nurse Practitioners can work independently without the supervision of a licensed medical doctor.
What Types of Malpractice Can a Nurse Practitioner Commit?
- Medical errors
- Failure to obtain an appropriate medical history
- Failure to diagnose a medical condition
- Delay in diagnosing a medical condition
- Providing the wrong diagnosis
- Failure to treat
Who do I Need to Sue to Protect My Legal Rights When a NP Commits Medical Malpractice?
When a NP commits medical malpractice, you need to ensure you take appropriate legal action against the NP who injured you and the hospital, medical practice, or medical clinic that employed the NP. The hospital, medical practice, or medical clinic that employed the NP is also liable for the injuries the PA caused you because they vicariously liable for the NP. Under the laws of Arizona, if an employee (like a NP) causes an injury, the employer is responsible for the acts of the employee who is acting within the scope of their employment.
If you believe a NP has committed medical malpractice against you or a loved one you need to contact an experienced medical malpractice law firm. For a free consultation contact us by clicking on this link, or call Snyder & Wenner at 602-224-0005.
