Your skin acts as a barrier for infection – but when a patient undergoes surgery, there is a chance of contracting an infection from open wounds.
These infections occur on the body where the surgery took place, and with any surgery, it’s important to know that there is always a chance of an infection afterwards.
Infections can occur just in the area of the skin where the incision was made; beneath the incision in the tissue or muscle; or it can be serious and affect organs or other parts of the body. While most infections can be cleared up with antibiotics, some can be serious, particularly if left untreated. Particularly if an infection is caused by medical negligence then a patient has a right to pursue a claim for compensation.
The impact of an infection
The impact an infection can have on the body can be serious.
Whilst infections can be a typical risk after an operation, the risk is increased when there is a lack of basic hygiene from a failure to sterilise equipment properly, or perhaps a failure to contain those who are already carrying an infection that can be spread. A failure to identify and manage infections that occur after the operation can also be negligent.
If infections take places for reasons such as this, people may be able to claim for it.
The effect of an infection can be detrimental for the recovery process as well as for causing additional suffering and complications. An infection after surgery that is not identified and properly managed can lead to gangrene, sepsis, and even the death of a patient.
An infection can have a detrimental effect on not just the patient, but also on the loved ones if they lose a family member because of a medical professional’s negligence.
Can I claim?
If you or a loved one have suffered an infection and you think it was caused by medical negligence, you may be able to claim compensation. Medical negligence that has caused an infection after surgery can be serious and can have a huge impact on someone psychologically, physically, and financially.
If a family member is lost due to an infection from negligent treatment, family members may be able to claim on behalf of the patient. They can also claim psychological damage if they suffered depression or other psychological illnesses.
Financially, a person can suffer as well. An infection can mean that the person is unable to work for a period of time or is unable to return to work at all. If this was to happen, they could face a loss of earnings, which can be claimed back.
We can help
If you or a family member has been a victim of an infection after an operation due to negligent behaviour we can help. We specialise in medical negligence claims, so if you think you have been a victim of medical negligence, we urge you to contact us and we can advise you on whether you have a claim.
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