Pressure Sore Negligence and Necrotising Fasciitis Compensation
A failure to prevent, monitor and treat a pressure sore may be regarded as substandard medical care and, if the patient suffers a poor long-term outcome, may justify a claim for compensation.
Preventing pressure sores in hospital
A patient who is admitted to hospital should be assessed for their risk of developing a pressure sore. Patients who might be at an increased risk of developing a pressure sore would include those who have a debilitating illness which restricts their mobility as well as those who have undergone a surgical procedure which leaves them bed-bound for an extended period.
The elderly and the obese are also at an increased risk of developing a pressure sore.
It is essential that 'at-risk' patients are closely monitored for signs of a pressure sore. They may need to be moved at regular intervals to reduce the risk of a sore developing. They may also need specialist equipment to reduce the pressure on their skin.
A failure by medical professionals to prevent a patient from developing a pressure sore is likely to be regarded as substandard care.
Treating a pressure sore
A patient with a pressure sore is in danger of developing an infection in the wound. Without treatment, such as cleaning and dressing of the sore, it may deteriorate and infect the subcutaneous tissue.
Any signs or symptoms suggesting that this is occurring require action from medical professionals to prevent further, life-threatening deterioration.
Necrotising fasciitis
Necrotising fasciitis, a debilitating and sometimes lethal infection, can develop where a pressure sore has caused damage to the patient's skin. The bacteria causing this appalling illness can then access the deep soft tissue where it causes decay.
Any signs of this infection require immediate action.
Symptoms of necrotising fasciitis include swelling, redness or discolouration of the skin, tenderness to the touch and intense pain.
A delay in investigating and treating such symptoms may cause permanent disability and even threaten the life of the patient.
Medical negligence and compensation
If medical professionals provide poor care of the patient in regard to the prevention and treatment of a pressure sore, resulting in necrotising fasciitis, they may be considered as negligent.
If the patient suffers a poor quality of life as a result of the negligence, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation which can address issues of financial impact.
Speak to a solicitor
If you or a loved one are suffering the horrific impact of a necrotising fasciitis infection due to poor-quality medical care, contact Glynns Solicitors.
Specialists in medical negligence compensation, one of our team of experienced solicitors will be very happy to take your call.
Please call us free on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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