Necrotising fasciitis is a rare infection that is often (although not exclusively) acquired in hospital. If this has happened to you or your loved one, contact us to find out if you have been the victim of medical negligence.
Developing necrotising fasciitis in hospital
Necrotising fasciitis is an infection that occurs when a certain bacteria enter the body through a break in the skin. As such, it is more common for the infection to develop in hospital patients, many of which will have a break in the skin and be especially vulnerable to infection.
The bacteria can enter through any gap, no matter how big or small. This can include:-
- A cannula in the hand or arm;
- A surgical incision;
- A pressure sore;
- A cut or laceration sustained prior to being administered to hospital.
When a hospital patient develops necrotising fasciitis, it does not necessarily amount to medical negligence. It can be difficult to avoid all infections, although some patients who are considered to be at-risk of infection should be given precautionary antibiotics. This is known as giving ‘prophylactic antibiotics’ and should prevent an infection occurring.
Diagnosing necrotising fasciitis
What will be considered negligent, however, is when medical professionals fail to diagnose the infection. Being in hospital, it would be sensible to think that any signs of a severe infection would be quickly noted and the condition diagnosed. But sadly this is not always the case, as often healthcare staff:-
- Fail to recognise the characteristic symptoms of infection;
- Make a wrong diagnosis;
- Fail to carry out diagnostic tests;
- Fail to provide emergency debridement surgery.
Consequently the infection will rapidly spread, causing an ever-expanding area of necrotic tissue. All the dead tissue will eventually need to be removed, leaving a patient with a large defect. A delay in treatment may also mean the infection spreads to the blood, something which can be fatal.
Did you develop necrotising fasciitis in hospital?
If you have developed necrotising fasciitis in hospital and the problem was not diagnosed and treated in a timely fashion, you could be entitled to pursue a compensation claim. To find out more, do not hesitate to get in touch with one of our necrotising fasciitis solicitors today.
After a short discussion, we will be able to advise what options are available to you. If you are able to pursue a claim for medical negligence, we will handle the case on your behalf, helping you obtain the compensation you deserve.
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