M R Law has successfully recovered damages upon behalf of the family of a woman who suffered Category IV pressure sores during a protracted stay in hospital.

The hospital initially failed to provide the elderly patient with an air mattress and it was alleged then failed to implement an adequate programme of care with inconsistent completion of the nursing Turn Charts.

It should be basic care to ensure vulnerable and elderly patients are provided with an air mattress to reduce the likelihood of developing pressure sores and that they receive adequate care during their stay in hospital. ~Robert Barker

Sadly, the elderly patient later died but her family sought damages for the severe pain and suffering she experienced prior to her death. Robert Barker, head of Medical Negligence at M R Law comments: “There is rarely any justification for a hospital patient to suffer bedsores, especially Category IV pressure sores that can result in extensive tissue loss and exposed bones.

It should be basic care to ensure vulnerable and often elderly patients are provided with an air mattress or something similar to reduce the likelihood of them developing pressure sores and that they receive adequate care during their stay in hospital.

Sadly on this occasion, the lack of care resulted in the elderly patient suffering significant symptoms prior to her death and whilst nothing was going to alter that, the family were at least able to obtain some redress by pursuing the hospital trust in the hope of reducing the likelihood of it happening to any other patients.”

If you or a member of your family has suffered complications whilst in hospital, please contact our specialist medical negligence team to speak directly to a qualified and experienced lawyer.