Can I Sue A&E for Not Warning Me About CES?
Assessing a patient with possible cauda equina syndrome. If a patient attends Accident and Emergency with possible early symptoms of cauda equina syndrome, the relevant medical professionals should consider several courses of action:
- a thorough assessment of the patient should be carried out in order to clarify the extent and nature of their symptoms, such as whether the patient is experiencing any sensory loss around the saddle area or when urinating
- referral for an urgent or emergency MRI scan may be necessary depending on the outcome of the assessment of the patient
- the patient may be sent home but, if their symptoms are possible early signs of cauda equina syndrome, they should be clearly advised of the red flag symptoms of this appalling condition. Furthermore, it should be made very clear that, should they develop any more symptoms, they should return to Accident and Emergency immediately.
The possible severity of the patient's situation and the urgency with which surgery may be necessary should not be underplayed. If a patient fails to understand the seriousness of their situation, they may delay a return to hospital and thereby put themselves at risk of a lifetime of double incontinence and loss of mobility.
Cauda equina red flags
The symptoms which should prompt a patient to attend Accident and Emergency immediately include the following:
- Pain, tingling or weakness radiating from the lower back to both legs
- Loss of sensation in the saddle area
- Difficulties with urinating such as having to strain
- Loss of bowel sensation or control
It is essential that an individual with lower back pain and sciatica can recognise and understands the meaning of these symptoms.
It is, furthermore, crucial that they are made aware of the dangers associated with failing to act should they develop any of these symptoms.
If a medical professional fails to make it clear to their patient what the red flag symptoms of cauda equina syndrome are, there is likely to be a delay in the patient accessing medical help. If the medical practitioner does not make it clear that, without urgent or emergency surgery, the patient may be rendered incontinent, the patient may not make the best choices.
If a medical professional is found to have failed in their duty to inform their patient as to the necessary course of action, they may be regarded as having provided substandard care and it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation for pain, suffering and financial losses.
Seek legal advice
Here at Glynns, we have supported numerous clients who have suffered due to a failure to investigate their cauda equina syndrome symptoms.
If you or a loved one are struggling with the appalling impact of cauda equina syndrome due to medical failings, contact us today to speak with a specialist medical negligence solicitor.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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