Pressure sores, or pressure ulcers, are painful and preventable injuries that commonly affect individuals with limited mobility or chronic health conditions. They add unnecessary suffering and complications to patients who are already vulnerable. Routine hospital checks and proper care can usually prevent these sores, so it is distressing to see cases where negligence leads to their formation.
In Ireland, around 1 in 20 patients hospitalised with an acute illness develop a pressure ulcer, with elderly patients being especially at risk,nearly 2 in 3 cases occur in those aged 70 or older. Pressure sores are not only painful, but they also cost a lot to treat. Each patient can spend up to €70,000 a year on treatment.
If you or a loved one has suffered from pressure sores due to hospital negligence, Michael Boylan Litigation is here to support you in seeking compensation and accountability. Contact us to discuss your claim.
What Is a Pressure Sore?
A pressure sore, also known as a pressure ulcer or bed sore, is an injury to the skin and underlying tissue caused by prolonged pressure on the skin. These sores often develop on areas of the body where bones are close to the skin, such as the hips, tailbone, and heels. People who are bedridden, use wheelchairs, or have limited mobility are most at risk, as they are unable to frequently change positions to relieve pressure on these areas.
What Is the Incidence of Pressure Ulcers in Ireland?
According to a report by the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, the average incidence of pressure ulcers in Irish healthcare settings is approximately 10%. However, this rate varies significantly across facilities, ranging from as low as 0.71% to as high as 14.4%. This means that while some hospitals or care settings see relatively few cases, others have a much higher incidence, likely due to varying levels of preventive care, monitoring, and patient mobility support.
Common Complications That Result from Pressure Sores
Pressure sores can lead to a range of serious complications, especially if they are not treated promptly. Common complications include:
- Infections: Pressure sores can become sites for bacterial infections, which may spread to other parts of the body.
- Delayed Healing: Poor circulation in affected areas can make it difficult for pressure sores to heal, leading to chronic wounds.
- Sepsis: In severe cases, untreated pressure sores can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening blood infection.
- Tissue Death: Prolonged pressure can cause necrosis, or tissue death, which may require surgical removal.
- Decreased Mobility: Pain and damage from pressure sores can further limit a patient's ability to move, increasing the risk of additional sores.
How Hospital Negligence Causes Pressure Sores
Pressure sores often result from inadequate care and oversight in healthcare settings, especially when staff neglect routine checks and essential preventive practices. Common ways hospital negligence can lead to pressure sores include:
- Failure to Reposition Patients: Patients who are unable to move on their own must be repositioned regularly to prevent prolonged pressure on vulnerable areas.
- Inadequate Skin Inspections: Regular skin checks help catch early signs of pressure sores, allowing for immediate intervention.
- Poor Hygiene Practices: Moisture from sweat or incontinence, if not properly managed, can increase the likelihood of sores.
- Insufficient Nutritional Support: Malnutrition or dehydration can weaken the skin, making it more susceptible to damage.
- Inadequate Bedding or Equipment: Proper mattresses and cushions are essential to relieve pressure, especially for patients at high risk.
The Pressure Sore Claim Process
After your initial consultation with us, we will gather all relevant information and medical records to investigate the circumstances around the pressure sores. This includes evaluating the level of care provided and identifying specific lapses that led to the condition. With this data, we build a strong case showing how the negligence directly caused or worsened the injury.
Once the claim is prepared, we guide you through the legal process, ensuring you understand each step and providing support in negotiations or court proceedings. Our goal is to help you secure fair compensation to cover medical costs, ongoing care needs, and the suffering endured, while holding the responsible healthcare facility accountable.
Statute of Limitations
Under the Statute of Limitations Act 1957, you have two years from the date of injury to file a pressure sore claim. However, exceptions apply: for minors, the time limit begins when they turn 18, and for those lacking mental capacity, the clock may be paused until they are deemed capable of managing their claim.
How Much Compensation for Pressure Sores?
The compensation for a pressure sore claim depends on several factors, including the severity of the injury, medical costs, pain and suffering, and impact on quality of life. Each case is unique, and specific circumstances, like the need for ongoing care or loss of income, influence the final amount.
To receive an accurate estimate tailored to your case, contact us. We'll assess your claim based on your specific situation and needs.
Start Your Pressure Sore Claim
If you or a loved one has suffered from preventable pressure sores, Michael Boylan Litigation is here to help. Contact us today to pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.
*In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement. This statement is made in line with regulation 8 of the Solicitors Advertising Regulations 2019.
