Medical Negligence Pulmonary Embolism
If there is a failure to treat or prevent a pulmonary embolism, there may be a case of medical negligence. For more information on pulmonary embolism claims, please get in touch with us at Glynns Solicitors.
What is a pulmonary embolism?
A pulmonary embolism is a blood clot in the lung. Ordinarily the clot will travel from another part of the body, usually the legs. A blood clot in the leg is known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Therefore pulmonary embolisms and deep vein thrombosis are closely linked, as the patient will typically have DVT before developing a pulmonary embolism, even if he/she is not aware of it.
A pulmonary embolism will cause symptoms such as:
- A sharp, stabbing pain in the chest
- Shortness of breath
- A dry cough
- Feeling dizzy and faint
A pulmonary embolism can be diagnosed with imaging tests, including an x-ray and CT scan. A blood test will also show whether there is a high level of protein in the blood – a common side effect of a pulmonary embolism. Once diagnosed, a pulmonary embolism must be treated with anti-coagulant medication.
What amounts to pulmonary embolism medical negligence?
A pulmonary embolism can create such a large blockage that blood cannot get into the lungs. This will leave the lungs deficient in oxygen, making it hard to breathe. This can be fatal if not treated in time. This means a pulmonary embolism needs to be diagnosed and treated without delay, or the patient could suffer life-threatening complications.
If medical practitioners fail to recognise the signs of a pulmonary embolism, delaying a diagnosis, there could be a case of medical negligence. Furthermore, if medical practitioners fail to treat a pulmonary embolism effectively or with the necessary urgency, there could be a case of medical negligence.
There can also be grounds for a claim if medical practitioners fail to prevent a pulmonary embolism. For instance, when someone is admitted to hospital they should be assessed to see if they are at risk of developing deep vein thrombosis. If so, preventative measures must be implemented. If this action is not taken and it leads to DVT/a pulmonary embolism, there could be a case of medical negligence.
Medical negligence pulmonary embolism claims
To conclude, there may be grounds for a medical negligence pulmonary embolism claim if there is a failure to:
- Make a timely diagnosis
- Provide prompt and effective treatment
- Prevent a pulmonary embolism developing as a result of deep vein thrombosis
If you or your loved one has suffered pulmonary embolism medical negligence, please get in touch with us to discuss the possibility of pursuing a compensation claim.
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