Parents allege children received 10 times amount of dosage post-op

NEW ORLEANS—Parents are suing a New Orleans hospital on behalf of their two children who allegedly received 10 times the correct dosage of a drug after undergoing surgery.

Ashley and Matt Hicks filed suit against Tulane University Hospital and Clinic in the Orleans Parish Civil District Court on July 18.

The Hickses claim that when their children were diagnosed with a bleeding disorder and needed to have their tonsils removed, they took the children to Tulane “specifically so that this relatively minor surgery did not turn into a major catastrophe.” Unfortunately, a mix-up at the pharmacy may have disastrous, long-term effects on the children’s health, the suit claims.

The defendant is accused of incorrectly mixing a drug called Amicar at the pharmacy so that each child received 10 times the correct dosage.

An undisclosed amount in damages is sought for pain and suffering,  mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, disability, medical expenses and testing, loss of employment and for any bodily injury that may result from the administration of the faulty dosage such as renal and liver failure and adverse effects on the children’s reproductive systems.

The plaintiff is represented by attorney Sera H. Russell III of Lafayette.

The case has been assigned to District J Judge Paula A. Brown.

A trial by jury request has been submitted and a medical review panel waived.

Case no. 2013-06741.