Compensation for Pulmonary Embolism Negligence
An undiagnosed pulmonary embolism can cause the death of the patient. Preventing, diagnosing and treating this life-threatening condition is vital and a failure to do so may justify a claim for compensation.
A pulmonary embolism is a product of deep vein thrombosis. If a part of a DVT blood clot breaks away, it can travel via the heart to the lungs where it can cause a blockage. This can prevent blood from flowing to the lungs and put the patient's life at risk.
Where possible, it is essential that medical professionals do all they can to prevent the occurrence of deep vein thrombosis and a pulmonary embolism. When these conditions do occur, prompt diagnosis and treatment are imperative to preserve the patient's life.
Possible impact of PE
Surviving a pulmonary embolism can leave the patient with long-term fatigue issues which can affect their ability to function and engage with the same level of activity as prior to the PE. This can impact on their quality of life and ability to work.
Preventing DVT and Pulmonary Embolism
Deep vein thrombosis, or blood clots, can develop whilst a person is in hospital for a number of reasons.
- DVT is more likely to develop in someone who is inactive for a sustained period of time such as a person who is in hospital either with a debilitating condition or who is recovering from surgery
- People who are already undergoing treatment for another diagnosis may be more vulnerable to developing a blood clot
With this in mind, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, has produced guidelines for the prevention of DVT developing in hospital.
These guidelines involve risk-assessing all patients who are admitted to hospital promptly after that admission.
According to the outcome of the risk assessment and taking into account the procedure for which the patient is in hospital, it may be appropriate to administer prophylactic medication (medication given to the patient prior to the procedure to try to prevent DVT). It may also be appropriate to provide the patient with anti-embolism stockings to wear.
The patient may also require intermittent pneumatic compression in order to stimulate the circulation of the blood and prevent it clotting.
If a patient is at risk of developing deep vein thrombosis but medical professionals fail to take any preventative measures, they may be considered to have provided substandard care. If the patient subsequently suffers a pulmonary embolism due to their failure to prevent a DVT, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Failing to diagnose DVT
A patient is at risk of a pulmonary embolism if they are already suffering with deep vein thrombosis. A failure to spot the symptoms of DVT may allow the patient to develop the life-threatening condition which is a pulmonary embolism.
Symptoms which might indicate that a patient is developing deep vein thrombosis would include an ache and swelling in the calf alongside redness and warmth in that area.
The patient requires urgent treatment in order to try to prevent the development of a pulmonary embolism.
A failure to diagnose deep vein thrombosis or misdiagnosing the patient's symptoms as something less severe can be life-threatening to the patient. It may also be regarded as substandard medical care, especially where the patient was clearly in an at-risk category, such as being overweight or immobile for a long period of time.
Failing to diagnose a pulmonary embolism
Symptoms which might alert medical professionals to the fact that their patient is suffering a pulmonary embolism could include the following:
- Irregular heartbeat
- Swelling and pain in the leg
- Fever
- Breathlessness
Medical negligence
Failing to recognise and act on those symptoms, especially where the patient is already known to be suffering with deep vein thrombosis, may be considered to have been negligent and may justify a claim for compensation if the patient suffers a poor long-term outcome.
Speak to a solicitor
If you or a loved one are suffering the significant long-term effects of a pulmonary embolism due to a failing in medical care, contact us today.
We are a specialised team of experienced medical negligence solicitors and will be very happy to advise you.
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