How Documentation On Handoff Kept Her From Being Sued

Welcome to the Learning from Lawsuits podcast, where we review real medical malpractice lawsuit cases so healthcare providers can learn from them.

In this episode a 62-year-old with WPW presents in atrial fibrillation; a nurse practitioner recognizes the case is beyond her scope and transfers care to the attending, documenting a detailed handoff. The patient later arrests after the NP’s shift but recovers and sues claiming PTSD. The appeals court found the NP not liable based on clear transfer documentation. Key takeaways: document handoffs thoroughly, customize templates with patient-specific details, communicate scope of care, and assign high-risk cases appropriately.