Pressure & Bed Sore Negligence & Compensation
Pressure sores and complications arising from them have become an increasing problem for the NHS in the last decade. Their effect should not be underestimated. They can take a long time to heal, often lead to infection and can result in very serious consequences such as the amputation of a limb. In some cases they can prove fatal.
Pressure sores (or pressure ulcers) often occur as a result of a patient being left in bed for a prolonged period of time without being turned. This is down to a lack of basic nursing care. They can also occur if a plaster cast is applied incorrectly following a fracture. As well as hospital patients, residents of nursing homes are often affected.
“David, thank you so much for your support through this very difficult time for my whole family. You really do have an amazing ability to explain things in a way that ordinary people can understand and that has helped us so much in making the decision we have.” TH, September 2017
Waterlow Score
Skin integrity is key and should be reviewed regularly. Indeed, the consequences of pressure sores can be so serious that when a patient is first admitted to hospital, it should be standard procedure for a formal pressure sore risk assessment to be carried out. This is known as a ‘Waterlow score’ and is designed to estimate the risk for the development of pressure sores in a specific patient.
The risk of developing pressure sores is greater amongst the elderly, the immobile and those suffering from diabetes or circulatory problems. Clearly, some patients will fall into two or even more of those high-risk groups.
Specialist
David Gazzard has over 25 years’ experience as a specialist clinical negligence solicitor. In that time, and particularly in recent years, he has represented many people seriously affected by hospital and nursing home acquired pressure sores.
“I would like to thank David and his team for their kindness, support and understanding over the last few months since my mother’s passing. Without your prompt action, thoroughness and sound advice I’m certain that we wouldn’t have seen such an early end to this matter.” JK, February 2018
Recent Cases
In a recent claim, David acted successfully for the family of an elderly lady who, tragically, died following the development of extensive pressure sores whilst in hospital.
In another claim, David successfully represented an elderly gentleman who developed pressure sores on his heal which quickly became infected. Despite extensive treatment, after several months his leg required amputation just below the knee.
Contact
Should you wish to discuss any of these issues, our Head of Medical Negligence, David Gazzard, will be delighted to speak with you informally and in complete confidence. You may call him on 01793 615011 or email him at david.gazzard@blbsolicitors.co.uk
