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Pressure sores

Pressure sores are areas where the skin and underlying tissue lacks oxygen and nutrients therefore making it impossible to maintain healthy tissue. This causes the area to breakdown and form a sore.

Initially pressure sores may appear as red, tender areas of skin that do not disappear after a few hours. They can be painful and turn purple in colour.

Common places for pressure sores to develop include:

Hips
Buttocks
Base of spine
Heels Ankles
Shoulders

How are pressure sores caused

Pressure sores develop as a result of sustained pressure on a particular area of the body which in turn leads to the obstruction of blood vessels. Friction or rubbing of the skin can also lead to pressure sores as the blood vessels can stretch and bend causing pressure ulcers to form.

In many instances it is easy to avoid contracting pressure sores. Pressure can occur as a result of poor nursing care, for example if a patient is left to lie in the same position for a prolonged period of time.

If it is known that a patient is to spend long periods of time in the same position then it is the responsibility of the medical staff to ensure that sufficient precautions are taken such as the provision of special mattresses and cushions that can reduce the risk of sores developing.

Medical negligence news stories

Clear Answers' lawyers deal with very many successful cases of all types of medical negligence and personal injury claims. We have teams of experts with a wealth of experience in your type of accident or injury, waiting to help you claim your rightful compensation.

Please visit our regularly updated Personal Injury News Section to view some examples of related news items, and our successful personal injury accident compensation claims.

Below is just one example of a medical negligence claim which we hope will be of interest. Please read the full story by clicking on the links.

Medical negligence compensation for substandard nursing care

Following an emergency operation, which was successful, this client was subjected to such substandard nursing care at this hospital, that she developed pressure sores, despite repeatedly advising the nursing staff that she was suffering discomfort and numbness.
More about Medical negligence compensation for substandard nursing care

Medical negligence compensation

If proven that medical negligence is the primary factor in the development of pressure sores then it is possible to make a claim for damages that could cover the costs of care and ensure that the claimant has financial security and the capability to lead a better quality of life.

Important things to consider before making a compensation claim include the time limits involved, there are strict three year time limits for claims of this nature as with all personal injury claims and also finding the right solicitors who possess the necessary experience to obtain the compensation that you deserve.

Clear Answers' lawyers, Thompsons Solicitors have an impressive track record when it comes to these types of claims, no matter how complex the case seems to you we will be able to provide you with expert advice that is uncomplicated and in terms that you can understand. A solicitor will be there every step of the way throughout your claim and we are committed to keeping you informed throughout the whole of the claim process.

Compensation claim

Have you or a member of your family suffered as a result of medical negligence? For more information about our service or for advice about whether we can assist you with a medical negligence compensation claim contact us today on 0800 783 9019 or complete one of our online compensation claim forms. One of our representatives will contact you (without obligation) to discuss the matter further within 24 hours (48 hours at weekends).

Win or lose, there is nothing to pay in order for us to pursue a valid personal injury accident compensation claim. There are some exceptions to this in Medical Negligence cases. Please go to our Costs and Risks section for more detailed information on these and how Clear Answers will handle your claim and funding.

Please visit our section on information and advice for more details on making a personal injury compensation claim.

Alternative funding arrangements may apply in Northern Ireland due to differing procedures and Law Society regulations.

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