Nursing negligence
fully investigated to
get the best
possible result"
Phil Barnes, Associate
We can help with complaints to the appropriate authority about the standard of care, and advise on the prospects of bringing a successful clinical negligence claim if the lack of care led to injury or, as in some cases, death.
We handle cases sensitively and with compassion, while remaining professional and efficient, so you can confidently allow us to proceed with the matter on your behalf, or on behalf of your family, if they are representing your interests.
Other areas of expertise/types of claim
Unfortunately, the standard of nursing care in our hospitals and care homes is occasionally unsatisfactory. Whilst we all appreciate that nurses and care assistants do a challenging job, there has to be accountability if their actions lead to problems for patients in their care.
We can assist with all issues arising from concerns with nursing care, in either a hospital setting or a care home environment. We can also assist with cases relating to care provided by district or community nurses, and midwives. Our nursing negligence expertise includes:
- incorrect drug administration
- failure to provide adequate nutrition and/or hydration
- failure to monitor vital signs (including those of baby in a midwifery setting) and/or to report any concerns to a doctor
- failure to keep adequate nursing records
- failure to report infection following dressing change
There are some aspects of nursing care with which you may be unhappy, but which do not constitute a clinical negligence claim, for example because the damage caused was minimal. A common example of this is where a patient has been left in a dirty bed for some time, and the call bell has been left unanswered. It is unlikely that this alone would allow you to bring a claim, as the effect on you or your loved one is unlikely to be lasting. However, this is unacceptable in most situations, and we can advise you on what options are available, and give you guidance on the complaints procedure.
Why use Access Legal from Shoosmiths?
Our team are experienced at handling these sensitive cases and appreciate the concerns that clients may have in relation to bringing a claim, particularly if the person to whom the case relates remains in the care of the nursing staff you wish to complain about. We aim to make the process as straightforward as possible, and conclude cases in a reasonable timeframe so that you and your family can move on.
Our experts
We have a very experienced national clinical negligence team, which has a wealth of expertise in this area. Key contacts are:
- Richard Follis - Partner and National Head of Clinical Negligence
- Andrea Rusbridge - Partner and Team Leader
- Kay Taylor - Fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives and Team Leader
Important things to consider
If your nursing negligence case is successful and you receive compensation for your injuries, you may need to protect that sum, as failure to do so could result in you losing the right to claim means-tested benefits. We can advise on so-called Special Needs Trusts to help protect those benefits.
This is particularly important if the person on whose behalf the claim is being brought is resident in a state-funded care home.
What do I do next?
We are able to advise you on the merits of your case at a free consultation with a member of our team. We appreciate that the circumstances leading to you contacting us may be very distressing, but we will support you through each step and keep you fully updated regarding the progress of your case.
