DiscoverLearning from LawsuitsWrong Address, Lost Minutes: EMS Error Leaves Patient Brain-Damaged
Wrong Address, Lost Minutes: EMS Error Leaves Patient Brain-Damaged

Wrong Address, Lost Minutes: EMS Error Leaves Patient Brain-Damaged

Update: 2025-08-27
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Description

Three EMS units went to the wrong address for a cardiac arrest, causing a 12-minute delay. The patient’s heart was restarted, but severe and permanent brain damage left him disabled.


The family won a jury verdict after years of litigation. Key takeaways: verify locations, use closed-loop communication, avoid cognitive biases, and remember that every minute counts—time is brain.

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Wrong Address, Lost Minutes: EMS Error Leaves Patient Brain-Damaged

Wrong Address, Lost Minutes: EMS Error Leaves Patient Brain-Damaged

Learning From Lawsuits