Lawsuits

Agree with the above, although I might add that until the patient actually files suit there might be little cause for worry. Patient's can threaten to sue you as much as they want, but they have to find a lawyer to take the case. If you are truly concerned, you might want to speak with someone in your risk management department.

And I would suggest that you not discuss this any further than you already have.

Best wishes as you work through this.

If I had a nickel for every time a patient threatened a lawsuit, I would be flying around in a snazzy jumpsuit with my personal flying jetpack. As it is, I am firmly Earth-bound. Most of the time, they are either just venting their spleen or trying to manipulate or trigger an emotional response out of the provider. Don't worry about a thing until and unless you get a call from your risk manager. Be sure to relay the patient's statements in this regard to the risk manager so they can make a note in the file. Send me a PM if you wish.

Do not worry about this until you are served with papers. It's not like you are required to go to court the next day. It's the patient's job to prove their claim and lawyers will not take your case for free unless you have substantial proof that they can win. The hospital is unlikely to settle if their own investigation shows you are in the clear.

Patients threaten to sue all the time, it doesn't mean they will. If a lawyer will not take the case for free, it costs thousands to retain one.

If your hospital cleared you & your documentation covers your behind, I wouldn't be worried.