Claiming Compensation for Long-term Sepsis Impact
Failing to consider that a patient might be developing sepsis may be regarded as substandard care and might justify a claim for compensation.
The severity of sepsis
Most people who develop sepsis survive it. With prompt diagnosis and treatment, many make a good recovery. Nonetheless, this life-threatening condition is one of the most significant causes of death both in the UK and around the world and can have a severe long-term impact on its survivors.
Sepsis can develop when the body responds in a dysfunctional and disproportionate way to an infection such as pneumonia. It can threaten the body's ability to support the life of the patient and ideally requires treatment within an hour of diagnosis.
Delays in diagnosis and treatment can lead to poor long-term health, extended dependency on intensive care and psychological distress. Of course, it can also be fatal.
Long-term effects
The long-term impact can include the following:
- Mental or cognitive difficulties affecting an individual's ability to function independently and to work
- Fatigue and breathlessness, affecting overall health
- Sight loss
- Anxiety and depression
- Muscle weakness and pain
An individual's quality of life can be severely restricted by such severe effects. It may be difficult or impossible to work, meaning that the patient's income can be devastated. It may be difficult to maintain independence and care or support may need to be put in place. This can be costly.
Suspect sepsis
It is essential, therefore, that medical professionals have a high suspicion of sepsis when faced with a patient who is exhibiting the red flag symptoms of breathlessness, fever or shivering, confusion and discomfort. A misdiagnosis, a delay in referring a patient or an underestimation of the significance of the patient's symptoms could prove catastrophic.
If a patient suffers long-term and debilitating problems due to a delay in recognising and treating sepsis, it might be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Getting legal advice
If you or a love one are suffering the long-term impact of sepsis due to poor quality medical care, you should obtain specialist advice and support.
Glynns Solicitors is a medical negligence legal practice with extensive experience of compensation claims in a wide range of medical fields.
Contact us today to talk to a specialist medical negligence solicitor about your experience.
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