The story
Because of his complex medical history, our client was admitted to hospital for an assessment, including a medication review. After returning home, he suffered bleeding from his bowel and was re-admitted to hospital, where it was found he had been given another patient’s medication which had caused the bleed.
The details
Medical negligence specialist, Andrea Rusbridge acted for a client who had a long and complex medical history including damage to his right kidney which was subsequently removed. He had previously undergone extensive surgery due to sub-acute bowel blockages (where the bowel is not completely blocked), this left him with short bowel syndrome and deterioration of the left kidney, which meant that he was also on dialysis.
Our client was admitted to the defendant hospital for a two-week assessment, which included a review of his medication. He was discharged home with new medication.
At this stage, he was well, active, and independent. Within a short time after taking the new medication, he noticed there was discharge from his bowels and active bleeding. His condition became significantly worse, and he was admitted to hospital.
His medication was reviewed whilst in hospital and it was discovered that he had been given somebody else’s medication. The three medications identified were clopidogrel, amlodipine and citalopram. Clopidogrel increases the risk of developing a bleeding ulcer when taken in conjunction with aspirin, which our client was already taking. Citalopram also increases the risk of gastrointestinal bleed, which he sadly developed.
The defendant hospital was notified of the error and a formal letter of apology was sent to our client.
The impact
As a result of the pharmaceutical error, our client developed a significant upper gastrointestinal haemorrhage and required several procedures to stop the bleed. The haemorrhage also caused him to suffer spinal stroke, which left his legs very weak and without feeling from his knees down. This lack of sensation in his lower legs meant he suffered from falls, which led to fractures and further admissions to hospital. He also developed foot drop in both legs. Because of his complex medical history and the negligence, our client had a reduced life expectancy.
How we helped
The defendants denied causing the injuries, so we issued court proceedings and served an application to speed up the claim, to allow us to bring the trial date forward. The court set a hearing date, at which point the defendants asked to begin mediation and the claim settled at mediation shortly before the court hearing.
Andrea Rusbridge says:
“This was an easily avoidable error that caused catastrophic consequences for our client. He had stoically coped with cancer and serious side effects of the treatment, managing to enjoy an active life, only to have that taken away from him by a careless mistake.”
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is recommended that specific professional advice is sought before acting on any of the information given. © Shoosmiths LLP 2024
