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Medical Negligence: Claims for pressure sores (ulcers)

Do you have ulcers, and believe that it may be due to negligent medical care?

Pressure sores, sometimes called bed sores, are skin ulcers that form due to constant pressure on a part of the body such as the shoulders, hips, knees, heels, ankles, and especially on the lower back and buttocks. The pressure shuts down the blood supply to that area of skin.

 

The condition first appears as a red or dark patch on the skin but as it progresses, the skin breaks down, forming blisters and dead skin. Infection of the underlying tissue, bones and joints can result.

 

Pressure sores can be made worse by moisture and friction. Treatment in the early stages involves relieving the pressure, cleaning the sores, and applying suitable dressings. However if pressure sores become advanced, medical intervention and even surgery, may be necessary. Infections and other complications of pressure sores can be fatal.

 

Medical Negligence Claims for Pressure Sores

Where pressure sores are concerned, prevention is far better than cure. In cases where hospital staff have failed to follow guidance on the prevention of pressure sores and as a result pressure sores have developed, there may be a case for negligence claims.

 

Wheelchair users, the elderly, the very overweight, the very underweight and people who are seriously ill to the extent that they are immobile are at risk of pressure sores, as are those who are anaemic, suffer from poor circulation, or who have systemic diseases such as diabetes and peripheral vascular disease. Those who suffer from neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis and other conditions affecting sensation or mobility are also at risk.

 

Hospitals should identify patients at risk of pressure sores, and take steps for prevention. The skin of patients who are at risk should be inspected regularly. Patients at risk should be regularly repositioned, and should not be allowed to sit for long periods and should be assessed for a seating aid. Immobility, even for a period as short as two hours, could cause the development of pressure sores. Where patients are at very high risk of developing pressure sores, pressure should be distributed through the use of a pressure redistribution system such as an alternating pressure mattress.

 

Contact us to find out whether you may have a claim for medical negligence

If you would like to discuss your case, or that of a family member which involves pressure sores which may have developed as a result of negligent medical treatment, contact our medical negligence team on 01924 882000 or email clinical.negligence@switalskis.com for your free initial consultation.