Internist found negligent in brain injury case

A court found that an internist failed to meet the standard of care in treating a patient who suffered a severe asthma attack leading to a brain injury. The patient arrived at a hospital and was first treated by the emergency physician. The internist who had experience with respiratory issues but limited intubation experience, assessed the patient after some time and delayed critical treatments. The patient eventually required intubation which was attempted unsuccessfully multiple times. By the time the intensivist took over her care the patient had already suffered significant brain damage. The court ruled in favor of the patient, declaring the internist negligent.