A woman’s family has secured £16,500 in compensation after she died from sepsis caused by an untreated pressure ulcer. SG had been a long-term care home resident with dementia. Despite visible signs of injury, her condition was not escalated, leading to an infection that ultimately proved fatal.
The case was handled by Adam Smith, a Clinical Negligence Solicitor at Waldrons Solicitors. Adam has extensive experience in handling complex clinical and medical negligence claims across the West Midlands. He is based in our Merry Hill office and specialises in cases involving failures by hospitals, GPs and care homes. Known for his tenacity and client approach, Adam is deeply committed to helping families seek justice when they have been let down by those responsible for their care.
What Happened?
SG had been living in a care home since July 2020, having moved there due to increasing care needs and her diagnosis of dementia.
In April 2022, staff reported a bruise on SG’s hip followed by a mark to her heel. These were early warning signs of pressure damage but were not recognised or treated as pressure sores.
Over the following weeks, her condition continued to deteriorate. Despite this, there was no escalation of her care and SG’s family were not informed about the seriousness of her injuries or the progression of her declining health.
On 13th June 2022, SG was admitted to Sandwell General Hospital with sepsis caused by an infected pressure ulcer on her heel. Sadly, her condition worsened and she passed away just over a week later, on 21st June 2022. The cause of death was confirmed as sepsis, caused by an infected heel ulcer, with her dementia and frailty listed as secondary factors.
How Waldrons Solicitors Secured Compensation
SG’s estate approached Waldrons Solicitors to investigate the care she received in the final weeks of her life. Adam Smith led the investigation and instructed an independent nursing expert, who provided a report concluding that the development of the pressure ulcer and subsequent sepsis were avoidable with appropriate and timely intervention.
Waldrons issued a Letter of Claim to Advinia Healthcare Limited, the company responsible for running the care home.
The claim detailed several key failings in SG’s care:
- A failure to involve SG’s GP or the tissue viability nurse despite her deteriorating condition
- Inadequate wound prevention and a lack of repositioning, despite SG being at high risk
- A failure to put in place a proper, individualised care plan
- A lack of escalation or communication with the family about SG’s needs and condition
The care home admitted liability for these failings, and after negotiations, a settlement of £16,500 was agreed. The family commented:
Excellent service received from Adam Smith and his team at Waldrons. His professionalism and sound advice throughout the claim has been gratefully appreciated. I would have no hesitation in recommending Adam and Waldrons Solicitors to anyone looking for a professional service.
The Importance of Recognising and Responding to Pressure Ulcers
This case is a powerful reminder of the serious consequences that can follow when pressure sores are not identified and managed quickly. For elderly and vulnerable patients, pressure ulcers are not merely a sign of discomfort, they can become life-threatening if not addressed promptly and properly.
Preventative care such as early intervention, regular repositioning, clinical escalation, specialist wound advice and open communication with families can make a vital difference.
SG’s family were left without the answers they needed for too long. By sharing her story, they hope to help raise awareness and prevent other families from suffering similar experiences. Adam reflects:
This was a deeply distressing and entirely avoidable case. Pressure ulcers are not just a nursing issue as they are a clinical red flag. With the right care in place, SG’s passing could have been prevented. I hope this outcome brings her family a degree of peace and that it reinforces the importance of vigilance in pressure ulcer care.
Concerned About the Standard of Care a Loved One Received?
If you have concerns about care provided by a care home, GP or hospital, Waldrons’ Clinical Negligence Team is here to help. We will listen, guide you through your legal options and support you every step of the way. Call 01384 811 811
Visit waldrons.co.uk/clinical-negligence
