Pressure injuries (also known as bed sores or pressure ulcers) can be incredibly painful and have life-changing consequences. Yet in many cases, they are entirely preventable with the right care and attention. If you or a loved one has suffered from pressure sores while in hospital or in a care home, we’re here to help you get the compensation you deserve.
We understand making a claim can feel overwhelming. That’s why our experienced medical negligence solicitors will support you every step of the way. We explain everything clearly and without legal jargon, so you know exactly what to expect throughout the process.
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Making a Claim for Pressure Injuries or Bed Sores Claim
Pressure injuries can cause considerable discomfort and distress. Without proper treatment, they can also lead to a range of serious complications, including:
- Blood poisoning (sepsis)
- Bone or joint infections
- Cellulitis
- Limb loss
- In worst cases, loss of life
If the right steps were not taken to prevent or treat pressure sores while you were under medical care, you may be entitled to claim compensation.
Our expert solicitors will discuss your situation with you to establish if you have a claim. We can confirm whether the care you received fell below the expected standard and if this resulted in your injury.
What causes pressure and bed sores injuries?
Pressure injuries occur when there has been prolonged pressure on the skin, often in people who are immobile for extended periods.
This pressure restricts blood flow and oxygen supply, leading to skin breakdown, especially over bony areas.
Common causes and risk factors include:
- Limited mobility
- Incontinence
- Being underweight
- Poor circulation or fragile skin
- Reduced sensation
- A history of serious (grade 3 or 4) pressure ulcers
Patients in hospitals and care settings can be particularly vulnerable, but with the right care, these injuries are largely preventable.
How can pressure sores be prevented?
Pressure injuries, such as bed sores, are largely avoidable with effective nursing care. Early risk assessments, pressure-relieving equipment, and ongoing monitoring play a vital role in prevention.
Preventative steps should include:
- Early risk assessments based on factors like BMI, mobility, skin condition, continence, age, and recent surgery or trauma
- Helping patients change position frequently (or doing so for them)
- Using pressure-relieving mattresses or cushions
- Keeping skin clean and dry through regular washing
- Frequent checks to spot early signs of skin damage
If pressure sores do develop, timely and appropriate treatment is critical. This includes:
- Regularly turning or repositioning the patient
- Using specialist equipment such as pressure-relief mattresses
- Involving a Tissue Viability Nurse (TVN) for expert care
How many pressure sore grades are there?
Pressure injuries are categorised into four grades. This system is used by healthcare professionals to assess and treat pressure sores effectively.
- Grade 1: The skin is intact but may appear discoloured, hard, warm and itchy.
- Grade 2: There is partial skin loss presenting as open wounds or blisters.
- Grade 3: There is full thickness skin loss but the underlying muscle and bone remain intact. There is often significant tissue damage, and the sore will look like a deep wound.
- Grade 4: The most severe type of pressure injury, causing full-thickness skin loss with damage to both the muscle and bone. There is a significant risk of infection and potential for life or limb-changing injuries.
While any grade may be grounds for a claim, more severe grades (2–4) typically have the greatest impact on health and quality of life.
How our medical negligence solicitors can help
If you’ve been affected by pressure injuries, we offer compassionate and practical advice on making a pressure injury or bed sores claim.
Our friendly and approachable team will:
- Discuss your situation in a free initial meeting, answering your questions with clear, honest advice
- Talk you through funding options, many of our cases go ahead on a no-win, no-fee basis
- Keep you fully informed throughout your case, with regular updates
With decades of experience, we have a strong track record in securing the compensation our clients deserve.
We're recognised as medical negligence experts, including a Band 1 ranking in leading legal directory, Chambers & Partners, which describes us as “highly regarded”. The Legal 500 ranks us as a Tier 1 firm, noting our “legal prowess and genuine care for clients”. We’re also accredited as part of the Law Society Clinical Negligence Panel, so you can trust in our specialist knowledge and high success rates.
Most importantly to us, our expertise is reflected in the positive feedback we receive from our clients.
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Contact Us Today
If you or a loved one suffered pressure sores while under medical or nursing care, we’re here to help. Contact us today for advice on making a pressure injury claim.
Get in touch with our experienced medical negligence solicitors today: use our online enquiry form or call our specialist team on 01392 937 278.