Wollens’ maternity claims specialist Elizabeth Larner has successfully concluded a clinical negligence on behalf of a mother following a series of avoidable medical errors that occurred during the late stages of pregnancy and shortly after delivery.

The claimant, who was 38 weeks pregnant at the time, attended hospital after developing a sudden and severe headache accompanied by nausea, visual disturbance, and marked sensitivity to light. Following imaging, she was incorrectly diagnosed with a serious cerebral condition and was commenced on anticoagulation medication that was later shown to have been unnecessary.

As a result of the misdiagnosis, the claimant underwent an extended period in intensive care, experienced significant deterioration in her symptoms, and later suffered two episodes of internal bleeding following delivery. She required multiple blood transfusions and endured prolonged abdominal pain during her recovery. Her newborn child also required urgent transfer to another hospital shortly after birth, a distressing situation compounded by the claimant being medically unable to accompany them.

Months later, further investigations revealed that the original diagnosis had been incorrect, and that the claimant had never required anticoagulation. She also underwent an invasive diagnostic procedure that would not have been necessary had the imaging been properly interpreted.

In addition to the physical complications, the claimant suffered psychological trauma arising from the misdiagnosis, emergency complications, separation from her baby, and concerns for both her own safety and that of her child. Expert evidence confirmed that she experienced significant trauma‑related symptoms over an extended period.

The hospital admitted liability for the misinterpretation of imaging, the failure to consider an appropriate differential diagnosis, the unnecessary administration of anticoagulation, and the avoidable complications that followed. With liability resolved, the parties have now reached a settlement, bringing the matter to a close without the need for court proceedings.

Elizabeth Larner said “I was delighted to be able to help this lady hold the relevant Trust to account for errors during her pregnancy with her first child, a time which should have been so joyous”.

The claimant said “It was a pleasure to work with Liz, she was always very helpful, respectful and understanding of my circumstances surrounding my case and kept me up to date each step of the way”. The Claimant hopes that the resolution of this case will contribute to improvements in patient safety and prevent similar experiences for others in future.

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.

Elizabeth Larner - Wollens Solicitors Devon

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