Successful resolution to claim regarding failure to prevent pressure ulcers

Elizabeth Larner, a Partner at Wollens, recently represented the family of an elderly woman who sadly died after developing avoidable pressure ulcers whilst recovering in hospital following surgery for a fractured hip.

Following her admission, she was identified as being at high risk of pressure damage. Despite this, appropriate preventative measures were not put in place and warning signs of developing pressure ulcers were not properly managed. Over the course of her admission, she developed multiple serious pressure ulcers.

The ulcers became infected and, despite treatment, the infection progressed to sepsis. Sadly, she died as a result of complications arising from the infected pressure ulcers.

We obtained independent expert evidence which identified a number of failings in her care, including inadequate pressure ulcer prevention, failures in assessment and monitoring, delays in obtaining specialist input and shortcomings in wound management.

A claim was pursued on behalf of her estate and family. The NHS Trust admitted that the pressure ulcers should have been prevented and accepted that, with appropriate care, the ulcers, infection and subsequent death would have been avoided.

Although liability was admitted, there was a dispute regarding the value of the claim because of her age and underlying health conditions. Following negotiations, the claim was settled by compromise for £75,000.

While no amount of compensation could make up for the family’s loss, the settlement provided recognition of the failings in care and the answers they had been seeking.

This case demonstrates the importance of effective pressure ulcer prevention and early intervention for vulnerable patients, as failures in basic care can have devastating consequences.

Elizabeth Larner said “I was pleased that I was able to successfully conclude this claim for the family in such difficult circumstances. Whilst no amount of money can compensate for the loss of a loved one, we achieved an acknowledgement that the care provided to a much loved wife and Mum was not as it should have been”.

Our client, Ms L, said as follows “My family and I are extremely grateful to Elizabeth Larner for her unwavering support, professionalism, and expertise throughout this claim. She guided us through what was a very challenging and distressing time with compassion and understanding, whilst always providing clear advice and reassurance. Her dedication to achieving recognition of the failings in care experienced by my mother meant a great deal to us, and we sincerely appreciate all that she did on our behalf”.

Speak to Elizabeth Larner

Elizabeth is a Partner at Wollens and can advise you. Contact Elizabeth via email Elizabeth.Larner@wollens.co.uk or call 01803 225135.

View Elizabeth’s Profile

You can also complete an online enquiry form. One of the Wollens team will contact you as soon as they are available.