Compensation Secured Following Hospital Negligence Claim

Mrs L had a complex medical history and suffered from cognitive impairment, Mrs L also required apixaban to reduce her risk of blood clots.

In June 2022 she was admitted to hospital with a suspected Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) as well as showing signs of being more confused and agitated than normal.

An ECG revealed a raised heartrate and IV antibiotics were commenced. The following day it was revealed that Mrs L had  significantly elevated Troponin levels and a chest X-ray showed increased vascular marking. Medication was provided and fluids continued, but a food chart was not completed.

When Mrs L’s blood cultures returned negative and an ECG indicated rate-controlled atrial fibrillation a plan was made to stop IV fluids and to convert IV antibiotics to oral. Over the next few days whilst in hospital a food chart was not completed consistently, however it was noted that Mrs L was eating and drinking with encouragement.

Several days later Mrs L’s food chart still showed no intake and her blood pressure was low. It was also noted that Mrs L had not opened her bowels, but no examination was undertaken. This continued over the next few days, where she received one litre of intra-venous fluids despite showing worsening dehydration. Her food chart continued to show no intake.

Despite an initial plan to discharge her home, upon review it was decided that she needed to resume IV antibiotics as Mrs L was not tolerating oral antibiotics due to increasing confusion. A bladder scan showed 700ml in her bladder but the nurses were unable to catheterise her. Mrs L’s temperature also spiked.

The following day it was noted Mrs L had not been receiving the correct dose of her apixaban medication and it appeared as though she had suffered a stroke. Unfortunately over the coming days Mrs L’s condition deteriorated and she passed away.

Upon instruction, Anna reviewed Mrs L’s medical records which highlighted inconsistencies in the food records kept by the Trust during Mrs L’s time at hospital. Medical evidence was also supportive in showing that Mrs L received an inadequate amount of antibiotics to treat the infection, inconsistent doses of apixaban medication and this materially contributed to Mrs L’s worsening dehydration, stroke and subsequent death.

Anna Watson settled the case with the insurers of the NHS without the need for court proceedings.