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Pressure Sores Claims
Pressure sores can occur when a patient is immobile or bed bound for a period of time. They are caused by pressure being placed on a particular area of their skin and protruding joints, such as the buttocks, spine, ankles, heels, etc. If sufficient pressure is applied to the skin, the surface can become compromised leading to a break, which can become infected. Pressure sores can develop quickly and once established they are difficult to treat.
The elderly, ill, immobile and those who are diabetic or suffer from pre-existing skin conditions are most at risk from developing pressure sores.
If you believe you have received substandard care which led to the development of pressures sores, in the last three years, you may have a claim for medical negligence compensation .
TRUE Solicitors has a team of specialist lawyers whose experience and expertise can help you obtain the maximum compensation in the shortest possible time. We handle all claims on a No Win, No Fee basis.
Call us on 0344 854 7000 to discuss your claim, or submit your details below and we’ll call you back at a time convenient for you.
How are pressure sores formed?
Pressure sores can arise due to medical/nursing practitioners’ failure to:
• Use pressure relieving equipment in cases where its use has been identified as being required.
• Undertake regularly inspections of the skin for signs of pressure sore development.
• Ensure the patient is moved and repositioned at least once every 2 hours.
• Perform adequate assessments to assist in assessing the risk of pressure sore development and to take preventative measures as appropriate.
Sores can also develop when bandages and plaster are put on too tight.
What are common examples of pressure sore claims?
Common types of pressure sore claims include:
• The failure to use assessment tools and clinical judgement with regard to skin integrity and the risk of pressure sore development.
• The failure to use appropriate pressure relieving equipment in cases where the requirement for the use of such equipment has been identified.
• Substandard nursing care by failing to reposition or move the patient in line with the treatment plan.
• The failure to implement and monitor appropriate nursing plans to reduce the risk of pressure development.
How to prevent pressure sores?
Pressure and plaster sores can be prevented by:
- Having an appropriate bed in hospital or care home.
- Being regularly moved from the same static position.
- Removing plaster that is too tight and re-applying casts correctly.
What can I claim in compensation?
You may be able to claim for the following:
• Loss of earnings.
• Injury compensation.
• Medical expenses, such as prescription charge and painkillers.
• Compensation for care and support.
• Reduced life expectancy.
• Ongoing illness.
• Recovery time.
How much will my claim be worth?
The amount of compensation that you will receive is dependent upon the individual factors of your case. Your compensation will be calculated using the evidence that we gather. The amount will depend on factors such as:
• The severity of the effects of the medical negligence which you experienced.
• How your life has been affected by the injury or illness.
• Financial losses, including how much money you’ve lost or will lose resulting from the medical negligence (e.g. loss of earnings, travel expenses).
Is there a time limit for making a claim?
You have up to three years from the date you became aware that you received negligent treatment to make a claim. It is advisable to seek legal advice as soon as possible, whilst the information and circumstances around the misdiagnosis are fresh to mind.
You are able to make a claim on a child’s behalf at any time after the misdiagnosis has occurred, before the child reaches the age of 18. After the child has turned 18 they have until they are 21 to make a claim themselves.
If you would like to pursue a claim on behalf of a loved one who has sadly passed away, where negligent pressure sore treatment has contributed towards their death, you can make a claim within three years of that date.
How much will it cost to make a claim?
TRUE Solicitors will manage your claim on a ‘No win, no fee’ basis, so there is no financial risk to you. Our charges are dependent upon the individual type of case, and are typically a percentage of the compensation that we obtain for you. The charges will be no more than 25 per cent of your compensation amount.
How do I start my claim?
If you believe that you or a loved one has a claim for pressure sore related negligence, contact TRUE Solicitors today to speak to a member of our First Response Team. We offer an initial free, no obligation assessment of your case.
