Compensation for Sepsis Impact After Negligent Perforation
Surgical procedures involving the bowel present a risk of perforation. A perforation or rupture of the bowel is where the lining of the bowel is damaged. This can allow bacterial faecal matter to seep from the bowel into the abdominal cavity where it can trigger infection and sepsis.
Where such a distressing outcome is the product of negligent medical care, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
The debilitating nature of the symptoms of a perforated bowel and sepsis demand that any surgical procedures involving the bowel are scrupulously carried out.
Medical negligence and a perforated bowel
Unfortunately, medical care is occasionally not to an acceptable standard and the patient suffers as a result.
Examples of substandard medical care relating to the bowel would include the following:
- A failure to assess a patient for infection risk in surgery
- A failure to provide prophylactic antibiotics where they would normally be considered necessary
- A failure of knowledge, care or technique leading to a perforation of the bowel
- A failure to identify that a perforation has occurred, leading to a failure to repair and a deterioration in the patient's condition
An abdominal infection and sepsis can prove to be life-threatening. As the body struggles to cope with the infection, sepsis can threaten the function of the major organs, putting the patient at risk of death. It can be a terrifying experience for the patient and their family as they struggle to recover.
Even when a sepsis patient survives, the long-term impact can be life-changing, limiting the individual's ability to function independently and work. Organ function can be compromised and the patient may suffer long-term post-sepsis symptoms including fatigue, muscle aches, breathlessness and psychological distress.
Claiming compensation
When a patient's quality of life is adversely affected by the quality of their medical care, the patient is entitled by law to make a claim for compensation. A successful compensation claim takes account not only of the patient's pain and suffering but also addresses any financial losses they have suffered as a result of their negligent care. This might, for example, include loss of income and pension when the patient is no longer able to work.
Speak to a medical negligence legal specialist
If you or a family member are struggling with the impact of sepsis due to negligent care of the bowel by medical professionals, contact Glynns Solicitors, specialists in medical negligence compensation. One of our experienced lawyers will be very happy to discuss your situation, free of charge, and advise you as to the suitability of making a claim for compensation.
Please call us free on 0800 234 3300 or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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